Google’s Carbon Emissions Jump by 48% since 2019
In its latest environmental report, Google revealed a staggering increase in its carbon emissions, which jumped by 48% since 2019. This significant rise in emissions is attributed to the growing demand for data centers and the expansion of its supply chain. The report highlights the challenges the tech giant faces in reducing its environmental footprint while catering to the increasing demand for its services.
According to the report, Google’s carbon emissions increased by 13% in 2024 alone, marking a significant acceleration in its environmental impact. The company’s total energy consumption has also grown, with data centers now accounting for 25% of its overall energy usage. This increased demand for energy has resulted in a substantial increase in carbon emissions, which is a major concern for the company and the environment.
The growing demand for data centers is a significant factor contributing to Google’s carbon emissions. As the company continues to expand its cloud computing services, it requires more data centers to support this growth. These data centers require a significant amount of energy to operate, which in turn contributes to the company’s carbon footprint. According to the report, Google’s data centers consume 12.6 gigawatts of energy, which is equivalent to the energy consumption of a small city.
Another significant factor contributing to Google’s carbon emissions is its supply chain. The company’s supply chain is responsible for 55% of its total emissions, with the production of hardware and the transportation of goods being major contributors. As Google continues to grow, its supply chain is expected to expand, which will likely increase its carbon emissions.
Despite these challenges, Google is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact. The company has set a goal to become carbon neutral by 2025, and is working to achieve this goal through a range of initiatives. One of these initiatives is the use of renewable energy. Google has made significant investments in renewable energy, with a goal of powering 100% of its operations with renewable energy. The company has already made significant progress in this area, with 60% of its energy consumption coming from renewable sources.
Another initiative Google is taking is the reduction of its e-waste. The company has set a goal to recycle 100% of its e-waste, and is working with its suppliers to achieve this goal. Google is also working to reduce its packaging waste, with a goal of reducing its packaging waste by 50%.
In addition to these initiatives, Google is also working to reduce its water usage. The company has set a goal to reduce its water usage by 50%, and is working to achieve this goal through a range of initiatives. One of these initiatives is the use of water-efficient equipment, which is designed to reduce water consumption. Google is also working to reduce its water usage through the use of rainwater harvesting systems, which collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses.
Google’s commitment to sustainability is not limited to its internal operations. The company is also working to promote sustainability in its supply chain. Google has set a goal to ensure that 100% of its suppliers are committed to sustainability, and is working with its suppliers to achieve this goal. The company is also working to reduce its supply chain emissions, with a goal of reducing its supply chain emissions by 50%.
In conclusion, Google’s carbon emissions have jumped by 48% since 2019, with a 13% increase in 2024 alone. The growing demand for data centers and the expansion of its supply chain are major contributors to this increase. However, Google is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact, including the use of renewable energy, the reduction of e-waste, and the promotion of sustainability in its supply chain. While there is still much work to be done, Google’s commitment to sustainability is a positive step towards reducing its environmental footprint.
Source:
https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/sustainability/environmental-report-2025/
