Google’s efforts towards achieving net-zero emissions are facing a setback as its greenhouse gas output rises, driven by the energy demands of data centers supporting artificial intelligence (AI). In its latest environmental report released on Tuesday, Google disclosed a 48 percent increase in climate-altering emissions over the past five years, contradicting its ambitions of carbon neutrality.

The company reported a 13 percent rise in total greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 compared to the previous year, primarily attributed to heightened energy consumption in data centers and their supply chains. Despite scaling up the use of renewable energy such as solar and wind power, Google acknowledged significant challenges in reducing emissions while expanding AI capabilities, which intensify energy demands and associated emissions from infrastructure investments.

In a joint statement, Google’s chief sustainability officer Kate Brandt and senior vice president Benedict Gomes acknowledged ongoing efforts but highlighted the complexity of mitigating emissions amidst AI expansion. The company emphasized that integrating AI into products amplifies energy requirements, posing hurdles to emission reduction efforts.

Google’s situation mirrors broader challenges across the tech industry, where companies like Microsoft also reported a 29 percent increase in greenhouse gas emissions in 2023, underscoring the trade-off between technological advancement and environmental impact. Both Google and Microsoft have committed to achieving carbon neutrality by the end of this decade, with Microsoft setting an additional goal of carbon negativity by 2050.

Reflecting on the need for systemic change, Google stressed the importance of collaborative efforts and supportive government policies to realize a sustainable future. As competition intensifies in the AI sector, environmental sustainability remains a critical focus for industry leaders striving to balance innovation with climate responsibility.