Samsung Ranks Last in Decarbonization Efforts Among Top Electronics Manufacturers

A recent report by Greenpeace has revealed that Samsung Electronics received the lowest ranking among top chipmakers for its decarbonization efforts. The report assessed the decarbonization efforts of the 11 suppliers to major consumer brands, ranking them based on their carbon reduction strategies. Samsung’s lack of a 2030 emissions reduction target, slow timeline for transitioning to 100% renewable energy, and heavy reliance on low-impact renewable electricity sourcing methods contributed to its low grade.

While Samsung is known for its smartphones, it is also one of the largest producers of semiconductor chips in the world. Greenpeace’s report highlights the significant carbon emissions generated by the consumer technology supply chain, particularly in the manufacturing of components and devices. The semiconductor industry alone is estimated to emit 86 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalents in 2030, more than double Portugal’s annual carbon emissions.

Greenpeace emphasizes the importance of clean energy practices throughout the supply chain to achieve carbon neutrality and mitigate global warming. The report calls for electronics manufacturers to set ambitious targets for renewable energy use and reduce their carbon footprint. Despite recent efforts by some companies, including Apple’s Supplier Clean Energy Program, progress in the industry has been slow and uneven.

Among Apple’s suppliers, Luxshare Precision achieved the highest grade in the ranking for its commitment to achieving 50% renewable energy by 2025. However, the report notes that Luxshare Precision still lacks a target for 100% renewable energy use by 2030. In contrast, Foxconn, Apple’s largest contract manufacturer, fared poorly in the ranking and reported the highest emissions among final assembly companies.

The report’s findings come ahead of the upcoming COP28 summit, where world leaders will discuss and address climate change. Greenpeace’s report serves as a reminder of the urgent need for companies to prioritize decarbonization efforts and transition to renewable energy sources to combat climate change.

Source: Samsung’s Decarbonization Efforts Rank Last Among Top Electronics Makers – CNET