Amazon has announced that its cloud computing division, Amazon Web Services (AWS), is enhancing its sustainability efforts with a circular economy strategy. This strategy focuses on three main pillars: "Design Better," "Operate Longer," and "Recover More." Through its re:Cycle Reverse Logistics hubs, AWS has successfully diverted over 99% of securely decommissioned racks from landfills.
According to a news release by Amazon, the "Design Better" approach emphasizes using recycled and bio-based materials in server racks and other components. The "Operate Longer" pillar focuses on extending the operational life of hardware to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Additionally, the "Recover More" initiative aims to improve recycling and reuse through Amazon’s re:Cycle Reverse Logistics hubs, resulting in the recycling or resale of millions of components.
"We’re committed to investing and innovating in sustainability to create a more sustainable future. Embracing circularity represents a paradigm shift in resource management, and at AWS, we're leveraging multiple strategies to drive this transformation," said Manju Murugesan, AWS's circular economy strategy lead.
Amazon has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 through The Climate Pledge. The company is focusing on sustainability across operations by reducing waste, responsibly sourcing resources, fostering community partnerships, and upholding human rights and labor standards.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is described as a comprehensive cloud platform offering over 200 services. These include infrastructure technologies and emerging solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. It serves a wide range of customers including startups, enterprises, and government agencies with a broad partner network.
In addition to cloud solutions through AWS, Amazon provides various services including online shopping, delivery of fresh produce, media distribution, devices like Alexa and Fire TV, logistics operations, customer service, and entertainment platforms such as Amazon Originals, Prime Video, and Audible.