In recent years, Meta (formerly known as Facebook Inc.) has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by embarking on a transformative journey towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Meta recognises the urgent need to address climate change and has developed a comprehensive sustainability strategy focusing on how they operate, what they create, and how they collaborate. This case study explores Meta's initiatives, progress, and key partnerships on its path to net zero.
Aerial view of green forest with misty clouds. Meta logo.
Meta's sustainability approach: protecting, amplifying, and collaborating
Meta is committed to protecting the wellbeing of people and the planet through sustainable practices throughout its operations and global supply chain. The company has taken significant measures to reduce its environmental impact and drive positive change.
In line with its commitment to sustainability, Meta has set a goal to achieve 100% renewable energy for its global operations. By 2020, it had already reached an impressive 86% renewable energy sourcing and it continues to make progress toward its target. This substantial shift to renewable energy sources demonstrates Meta's dedication to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating its environmental footprint.
Water stewardship is another crucial aspect of Meta's sustainability strategy. They have set a target to replenish 100% of the water used in water-stressed areas by 2030. To achieve this, Meta is actively implementing water conservation programmes and establishing partnerships focused on responsible water management. By addressing water scarcity challenges, Meta aims to ensure the sustainable use of this vital resource.
Meta recognises its unique position to amplify climate leaders and drive positive change through its products and platforms. They actively promote climate-related content, disseminate accurate information, and provide tools and resources that empower users to take climate action. By leveraging its vast reach, Meta aims to raise awareness and inspire individuals to make a meaningful impact on environmental issues.
Collaboration plays a pivotal role in Meta's sustainability journey. They engage with experts and actively support established initiatives in the climate space. Meta collaborates with organisations such as the United Nations Global Compact and participates in initiatives like the Science-Based Targets initiative. By aligning its sustainability goals with globally recognised standards and collaborating with experts, Meta ensures their efforts are well-informed and contribute to collective action against climate change.
Read more: Major global companies develop science-based targets for biodiversity
Meta’s recent advancements
The headquarters of Meta Platforms, Inc., known as Menlo Park, California. Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/jul/12/apple-headquarters-most-expensive-buildings
Meta's journey toward sustainability has reached new milestones with its recent Q2 performance and expanded carbon removal initiatives. Despite the growing challenge of managing carbon emissions, particularly from its AI operations, Meta continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability alongside robust financial performance.
Meta continues to strengthen its carbon removal efforts with a recent landmark agreement to purchase up to 3.9 million carbon credits from BTG Pactual’s forestry division by 2038. This transaction represents Meta’s most significant single-project carbon removal initiative to date, aligning with its long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030. The deal involves an initial purchase of 1.3 million credits, with an option to acquire an additional 2.6 million credits from reforestation projects in Latin America. Valued at around $16 million, this agreement underscores Meta’s focus on nature-based solutions to offset emissions and enhance its sustainability portfolio. By supporting BTG Pactual's Timberland Investment Group (TIG), which has planted over 7 million seedlings, Meta contributes not only to the global carbon market but also to environmental and economic benefits in the region.
Q2 2024 financial results and how they relate to sustainability
Meta’s second-quarter earnings showcased remarkable financial growth, with the company reporting $39.07 billion in revenue and $5.16 earnings per share, surpassing analysts' expectations. This growth was largely driven by advancements in AI technology and increased user engagement across Meta's platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted that AI investments will continue to be a key driver of capital expenditure growth in 2025.
However, these advancements in AI come with a significant environmental challenge. The increased computational power required for AI operations has led to a rise in carbon emissions, complicating Meta’s ambitious sustainability goals.
Strengthening Meta’s commitment to net zero
Meta remains resolute in its mission to achieve net-zero value chain emissions by 2030, building on its success of reaching net-zero emissions in global operations by 2020. Tackling Scope 3 emissions, which accounted for 99% of its footprint in 2022, is a critical focus area. To address this, Meta is implementing strategies centred on efficiency, circularity, and the adoption of low-carbon technologies.
Through its supplier engagement programme, Meta is encouraging its supply chain to align with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aiming for at least two-thirds of its suppliers to set reduction targets by 2026. Additionally, Meta has significantly reduced its operational emissions by 94% from a 2017 baseline through the use of 100% renewable energy in its data centres and offices.
Expanding carbon removal initiatives
Meta’s strategy to manage its carbon footprint includes an expanded focus on carbon removal projects. The company has diversified its approach by investing in both nature-based and technological carbon removal solutions. A notable recent development is Meta's purchase of 6.75 million carbon credits from Aspiration, focusing on ecosystem restoration and sustainable agricultural practices. This partnership demonstrates Meta's commitment to investing in nature-based solutions to mitigate its carbon emissions. By purchasing carbon credits, Meta supports projects that remove or reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Read more: Meta signs major carbon credits deal with Aspiration for nature-based solutions
Meta also plays a proactive role in advancing the voluntary carbon market by financing new project developments and collaborating with organisations like the World Resources Institute to enhance the accuracy and availability of environmental data. Furthermore, Meta has joined forces with other tech giants through the Frontier initiative, a $925 million joint commitment aimed at accelerating the development of carbon removal technologies.
Balancing growth with environmental responsibility
Meta's journey to net zero encompasses a holistic approach to sustainability, addressing both internal operations and external platforms. Its recent financial success and continued investment in AI are complemented by its unwavering commitment to sustainability. By integrating renewable energy, promoting circularity, and expanding carbon removal initiatives, Meta is striving to balance its rapid growth with its environmental responsibilities. By strengthening climate leaders and promoting climate-related content, Meta empowers users to take action. As the company navigates the complexities of its carbon footprint, it sets a compelling example for the tech industry and beyond in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
Read more: Overcoming sustainability challenges: practical solutions for your business
DGB Group supports organisations in achieving their sustainability goals by providing verified carbon units and biodiversity credits. Through the implementation of nature-based solutions, such as reforestation, afforestation, and energy-efficient cookstove projects, companies can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enhance the wellbeing of nature and local communities. This collaborative approach fosters a sustainable future that harmoniously balances environmental and social benefits.
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