Microsoft has undertaken major initiatives to restore rainforests and offset its carbon emissions, particularly those linked to its AI operations. These efforts align with its goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030.
Key Initiatives
1. Amazon Rainforest Restoration:
– Microsoft has partnered with Mombak, a Brazilian startup, to acquire 1.5 million carbon removal credits. This will support the reforestation of degraded Amazon land by planting millions of native trees, restoring an area equivalent to five times the size of Manhattan. The project aims to enhance biodiversity and sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide over time.
2. Mexican Rainforest Restoration:
– Microsoft purchased 234,000 carbon removal credits from Toroto, a Mexico-based company. This project focuses on regenerating 47,000 hectares in the Calakmul region, home to endangered species like jaguars and Baird’s tapirs. It also provides economic benefits to local communities managing the land.
3. Innovative Financing:
– Microsoft’s collaboration with the World Bank helped launch the **Amazon Reforestation-Linked Outcome Bond**, which raised $225 million for large-scale reforestation projects in Brazil. This includes partnerships with companies like re.green to plant native species and restore ecosystems across 16,000 hectares.
4. Offsetting AI Emissions:
– These initiatives are essential for counterbalancing the increased emissions from Microsoft’s growing AI infrastructure, which demands significant energy resources.
By integrating nature-based solutions and community-driven approaches, Microsoft is setting a precedent for corporate climate action while contributing to global reforestation and biodiversity conservation efforts.
Press release
