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At the European Tech for Climate Action Conference in Brussels, Amazon’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Kara Hurst, emphasized the importance of bold, ambitious climate action and technological innovation. In her keynote speech, Hurst praised the European Union’s Green Deal and shared Amazon’s commitment to accelerating the green transition through partnerships, investments in renewable energy, and sustainable innovation. We had anticipated an even greater focus from Kara Hurst on the sale of used and refurbished devices through Amazon. Their ‘Renewed’ program is well-known for its success, though it remains challenging for merchants to join the platform.

Supporting the EU's Green Deal

Hurst highlighted how the Green Deal, launched five years ago, has created an enabling framework for sustainability and green growth across Europe. As a company operating across eight EU countries, with over 150,000 employees, Amazon has been an advocate for the Green Deal’s efforts to create opportunities through clean technology. The regulatory mechanisms, she noted, have catalyzed innovation in areas such as renewable energy and zero-emission transportation.

Amazon's climate achievements

Since the launch of Amazon’s Climate Pledge in 2019, over 525 companies across 45 countries have joined forces in reducing emissions and transitioning toward a sustainable future. Hurst proudly announced that Amazon achieved its goal of matching 100% of its electricity use with renewable energy by 2023, seven years ahead of schedule. The company has developed over 6 GW of renewable energy projects in Europe, including significant offshore wind capacity.

Additionally, Amazon has transformed its European delivery network by expanding electric vehicle fleets and establishing over 40 micro-mobility hubs. These initiatives, coupled with AI innovations such as the Packaging Decision Engine, have reduced the company’s carbon footprint and packaging waste significantly.

A call for further action

Looking ahead, Hurst urged the EU to align sustainability with competitiveness, proposing the development of a "Sustainable Single Market." She advocated for stronger emissions reduction targets by 2040 and emphasized the need for modernizing Europe’s power grid to support clean energy investments.

Hurst concluded by reaffirming Amazon's commitment to working alongside the EU and other industry leaders to accelerate the green transition, promoting job creation and innovation in climate technologies.