Big tech datacenters now emit a third of France's total carbon output

Datacentres drive up big tech's carbon emissions to a third of those of France

Microsoft, Amazon, and Google datacenters emitted 104 million tonnes of CO₂ in 2025—equal to 33% of France's national total. Microsoft accounted for nearly half, driven by AI infrastructure expansion. All three have walked back clean-energy pledges: Amazon and Google dropped 24/7 carbon-free targets, and Microsoft's carbon-offset contracts were found to overstate impact. These figures are self-reported, so real emissions are likely higher.

Why it matters: Self-reported emissions from the three hyperscalers hit 104 million tonnes, a third of France's total. Microsoft alone accounts for nearly half. The sharper signal: Amazon and Google quietly dropped their 24/7 clean-energy targets, and Microsoft's carbon offsets were found to ...