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Amazon’s Emissions Jump 6% in 2024 as AI Expansion Accelerates

Soaring electricity demand from new AI data centers outpaced Amazon’s renewable energy sourcing

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Overview

  • Amazon’s total carbon output reached 68.25 million metric tons last year, marking a 6% rise and the first annual increase since 2021
  • Data center build-out for generative AI drove a spike in electricity use while fuel consumption by delivery providers boosted direct emissions
  • Despite higher overall emissions, Amazon achieved a 4% reduction in carbon intensity as revenue continued to grow
  • The company is stepping up investments in wind and solar projects, carbon-free nuclear deals and Rivian electric delivery vans to rein in its footprint
  • Environmental groups and Amazon Employees for Climate Justice have challenged its 100% renewable matching claims and called for greater transparency in its reporting methodology