Microsoft looks to go “beyond carbon neutral” with new energy programs

Michael Cottuli

Microsoft Campus

Companies that are actively attempting to “go green” have always focused on trying to become carbon neutral, and eliminating their carbon footprint. Because they’re so committed to improving the environment around them, Microsoft has published a carbon white paper that details their plans to go “beyond carbon neutral,” taking the steps necessary to become a force for good in the environment.

You can download the white paper and read about Microsoft’s goals in energy through their official blog post, but these are the areas they’re focusing their efforts on:

  • Renewable energy: We are using the funds to drive long-term commitments and develop new renewable energy procurement options.
  • Community projects: We are investing in projects that align with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, and we are working to help organizations better leverage the potential of technology to achieve improved environmental, human health, and biodiversity outcomes.
  • Climate Grants: We are evolving our Climate Grant program, which provides funds to catalyze and accelerate climate-related energy and technology innovation, to drive further impact in the communities in which we operate.
  • Reporting: We are expanding our tracking and reporting to better measure our impact over time.

This plan is designed as a follow-up to Microsoft’s carbon fee that was implemented back in 2012 to hold business departments accountable for their carbon emissions. It works to make sure that the company’s carbon emissions are well documented to measure and account for environmental impact over an extended period, and provides grants to organizations that can help to positively influence a green society.

If you decide you want to read the white paper, be ready for an incredibly in-depth look at Microsoft’s plans for the future of energy sustainability. It’s 40 pages of somewhat interesting content regarding Microsoft’s mantras about sustainability and carbon neutrality. Again, if you’re passionate about Microsoft and the environment, it’s worth grabbing.