- Amazon’s new carbon credit service enables qualified companies to access high-quality, science-based carbon credits through its Sustainability Exchange.
- Participating companies must commit to rigorous emissions reduction and reporting standards.
- Initiative supports nature-based projects and technological solutions to accelerate global decarbonization.
Amazon announced the launch of a carbon credit service, expanding its Sustainability Exchange to provide access to high-integrity, science-based credits. This initiative targets suppliers, business customers, and Climate Pledge signatories seeking credible ways to complement their decarbonization strategies.
“The voluntary carbon market has been challenged with issues of transparency, credibility, and the availability of high-quality carbon credits,” said Kara Hurst, Amazon’s Chief Sustainability Officer. “We’re using our size and high vetting standards to help promote additional investments in nature, and we are excited to share this new opportunity with companies who are also committed to the difficult work of decarbonizing their operations.”
Beyond Operational Decarbonization
As part of its broader goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, Amazon underscores the urgency of scaling carbon removal solutions, protecting forests, and restoring ecosystems. IPCC research emphasizes the necessity of removing approximately one trillion tons of atmospheric carbon by 2100 to mitigate climate change impacts.
“Deforestation drives 30% of global emissions—if we don’t end and reverse it, we won’t get a handle on climate change,” noted Dr. M. Sanjayan, CEO of Conservation International. “The game-changer? Major private sector players like Amazon stepping up to recognize that protecting nature is an economic necessity, not just an environmental one.”
Rigorous Standards for Credibility
Access to these high-quality carbon credits is strictly limited to companies that publicly commit to net-zero emissions targets, encompassing Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (indirect electricity), and Scope 3 (other indirect) emissions. Participants must also regularly report their greenhouse gas emissions and implement science-based decarbonization strategies.
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“Sourcing high-quality credits is a must for us, and with a trusted partner like Amazon by our side, we’re excited and confident that our move into the voluntary carbon market will truly make a difference where it matters most,” said Kristine Rohls, Chief People Officer of Slalom.
Companies already leveraging the service include Flickr, Seneca Group, Ryan Companies, Corsair, Steelcase, and Slalom.
“At Flickr and SmugMug, we invest in a number of nature-based solutions for impact beyond just carbon, but they often lack credibility. Amazon’s expertise and scientific rigor means our team can meet our climate goals with confidence,” said Ben MacAskill, Chief Operating Officer and President of Flickr.
Environmental leaders underscore the necessity and urgency of Amazon’s initiative:
“Our planet can’t wait. The need for bold corporate climate action has never been more urgent. Cutting emissions and protecting nature are both critical,” said Fred Krupp, President of the Environmental Defense Fund. “Amazon’s carbon credit service shows how companies can take meaningful action with speed and scale.”
Amazon continues to stress collaborative, science-backed innovation as essential in addressing climate change and meeting global sustainability goals.
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