Microsoft Buys Waste for $1.7 Billion: The Carbon Reduction Secrets Behind AI
Microsoft spent $1.7 billion to purchase organic waste management services, aiming to address the carbon emission crisis caused by the expansion of its AI business. Training GPT-4 once consumes tens of millions of kilowatt-hours, equivalent to the annual emissions of over 3,000 cars. Microsoft's carbon emissions increased by 23.4% instead of decreasing, prompting a collaboration with Vaulted Deep to store biogas underground 1,500 meters deep, expected to offset 4.9 million tons of carbon equivalent. This move aligns with the U.S. 45Q tax credit policy (up to $85 per ton) and can enhance ESG ratings to attract investment, but it has been criticized as a temporary solution.
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