Microsoft emissions surge 27% as AI buildout crimps climate goals

Total emissions reached 21.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, up from 16.7 million the prior year, according to the company

Source

The Hindu — Science & Tech →

Quick Revision

Prelims-testable facts

01Microsoft's greenhouse gas emissions surged by 27% in its latest fiscal year.
02The company's total emissions reached 21.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
03This represents a significant increase from the prior year's emissions of 16.7 million mtCO2e.
04Microsoft's AI buildout is contributing to its increased greenhouse gas emissions.
05The company's water consumption climbed by 22% to 8,170 megaliters in the latest fiscal year.
06Half of Microsoft's water withdrawals come from areas classified as having high or extremely high water stress.
07Microsoft's carbon emissions have risen 29% since 2020, driven by AI and cloud data center expansion.

Trap alerts

Most people think that AI buildout is the primary cause of Microsoft's increased emissions, but actually it is a combination of factors including AI buildout, cloud computing demand, and other business activities.
Most people think that Microsoft's emissions are decreasing, but actually they have been rising since 2020.
Most people think that Microsoft's water consumption has not increased significantly, but actually it climbed by 22% to 8,170 megaliters in the latest fiscal year.

Mains Practice Question

Critically examine the implications of increasing emissions from AI buildout on corporate climate goals and global environmental targets.

250 words

Practice this in the exam hall →

Prelims Practice MCQs

Single facteasy

Microsoft's emissions surged by what percentage in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025?

A.10%
B.20%
C.25%
D.30%

Microsoft's emissions increased by 27%, a significant jump from the previous year, highlighting the challenges of balancing growth with environmental sustainability.

Multiple statementsmedium

Consider the following statements regarding Microsoft emissions: 1. Microsoft's total emissions reached 25 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. 2. The company's emissions surged by 20% from the prior year. 3. Total emissions reached 21.1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. How many of the above statements are correct?

A.Only one
B.Only two
C.All three
D.None

The first statement is incorrect because it states a different number than what was reported. The second statement is also incorrect as it reports a lower percentage increase than stated in the source. The third statement accurately reflects the information from the text.

← All current affairs