- Microsoft, Amazon, and Google reported combined carbon emissions of 119 million metric tons of CO₂ equivalent, up 18% from the previous year
- The increase was attributed to the expansion of AI and cloud infrastructure, including data centre construction and supply chains
Facts
Microsoft, Amazon, and Google reported combined greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 119 million metric tons of CO₂ for the fiscal year ending March 2026. That was up from 101 million tons the previous year, roughly matching one-third of France's annual carbon emissions.
The three companies linked the increase to the expansion of AI and cloud infrastructure. Microsoft's emissions rose 25% to 20 million tons, while Google's increased 18% and Amazon's 16%. Construction, equipment manufacturing, supply chains, and growing electricity demand were among the leading contributors. All three companies said they remain committed to long-term net-zero targets.
Assessment
The figures show that more emissions are generated before a data centre begins operation. Construction, equipment manufacturing, and supply chains represent a growing share of the carbon footprint as AI infrastructure expands. Cutting operational emissions alone will not address the carbon produced during procurement, manufacturing, and construction. Future emissions reductions will also depend on decisions taken before a facility enters service.
For BTW readers, the story is no longer only about how data centres are run. It is also about how they are built. A rising share of emissions is generated before the first server is installed.
What to Watch
Watch whether Microsoft, Amazon, and Google begin reporting lower emissions from construction and supply chains while continuing to expand AI infrastructure. Greater use of low-carbon building materials, equipment sourcing, and construction methods would signal whether infrastructure growth is becoming less emissions-intensive.