Google is committed to reaching net-zero emissions across its entire operations and value chain by 2030. The tech giant is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also heavily investing in nature-based solutions, which are integral to its carbon removal strategy. By focusing on both natural and technological carbon removal methods, Google aims to neutralise residual emissions after achieving its ambitious reduction targets.
A close-up of monarch butterflies flying around California meadows. AI generated picture.
A significant part of Google's nature-based efforts is through the newly co-founded coalition Symbiosis. Launched in May 2024, this coalition brings together leading companies, including Meta, Microsoft, and Salesforce, to advance scalable, high-quality nature-based carbon removal projects. Symbiosis will develop criteria based on the latest scientific insights to ensure projects like reforestation and wetland restoration have measurable and lasting climate impacts. By setting a high bar for nature-based carbon credits, Google aims to provide more confidence in these solutions while encouraging other companies to follow suit.
In addition to global efforts, Google is working to enhance biodiversity through localised nature-based projects. The company has restored approximately 67 acres of habitat on its campuses, focusing on native species to support local ecosystems. One notable project is the creation of 20 acres of habitat for monarch butterflies at their California campuses, contributing to a tenfold increase in monarch caterpillar populations in newly restored areas. These efforts earned Google the prestigious 2023 Monarch Sustainer of the Year award from Pollinator Partnership.
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Google's impact extends beyond pollinator preservation. In 2023, the company completed a native habitat restoration project along the West Channel near Sunnyvale, California, which restored 4.3 acres of aquatic, wetland, and riparian habitats. This project not only supports migratory birds but also provides flood protection for nearby communities, demonstrating the intersection of nature resilience and biodiversity.
Additionally, Google is committed to operating its offices and data centres on 24/7 carbon-free energy, with a focus on advancing energy efficiency and electrification across its operations. By engaging suppliers in decarbonisation roadmaps, building high-performing green buildings, and optimising data centres, Google is driving sustainability at every level of its business.
HSBC and Google partner to empower green tech ventures
In 2023, Google Cloud partnered with HSBC to support green tech firms developing solutions for nature conservation. The collaboration centres on Google Cloud's Ready-Sustainability programme, which assists companies in their sustainability efforts. HSBC pledged $1 billion by 2030 to finance climate tech ventures across sectors like electric vehicles and sustainable food systems, helping companies vetted through Google’s sustainability criteria. This partnership reinforces Google’s commitment to advancing green technologies and sustainable finance, contributing to the global transition to a low-carbon economy.
Google's $35 million investment in the carbon credit market
In a major sustainability initiative announced in 2023, Google committed $35 million to carbon removal credits over the next year, supporting the US Department of Energy's carbon removal market development. This investment, part of Google's broader carbon removal strategy, is expected to catalyse similar commitments from other tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. By matching the DOE's funding, Google aims to advance the carbon capture industry and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change through nature-based solutions.
Google partners with Brazilian startup for forest carbon credits
Google took a significant step toward its 2030 net-zero goal by partnering with Brazilian startup Mombak to purchase 50,000 metric tonnes of forest-based carbon credits. Mombak's reforestation efforts in the Amazon rainforest focus on restoring degraded lands, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting local communities. This deal marks Google's first venture into forestry-based carbon credits, reinforcing the importance of nature-based solutions in their carbon removal strategy. The partnership highlights Google’s growing investment in nature restoration to meet its climate goals.
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Google’s forward-thinking approach exemplifies how large corporations can leverage both nature-based and technological solutions to reduce emissions and protect ecosystems. Its efforts to restore native habitats, support pollinator species, and collaborate with global partners are key to achieving a net-zero future while ensuring biodiversity thrives.
At DGB Group, we go beyond developing nature-based projects—we’re transforming the connection between nature and capital markets. Our dedication to excellence is demonstrated by the scale of our initiatives and the independent verification of the carbon units we generate. Whether through large-scale reforestation efforts or community-led sustainability projects, every investment we offer supports ecosystem restoration and helps corporations and governments achieve their net-zero goals.
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