Jeff Bezos’ "Climate Pledge" is, at last, a milestone step forward

(WASHINGTON – September 19, 2019) Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos today revealed The Climate Pledge, an initiative to meet the Paris Agreement 10 years ahead of schedule. The announcement comes one day ahead of Amazon employees’ planned participation in global climate strikes.   

“Making an ambitious commitment is the first step for any company wanting to reduce its carbon footprint and make meaningful change. I’m encouraged that Amazon has joined leading companies like Walmart, McDonald’s, Tyson Foods, and others who have spent years implementing ambitious plans to reduce emissions in line with what the science says is necessary.

“Collaborating with other companies and across global supply chains is the second step – so it’s essential that Amazon delivers on this promise in order to scale and accelerate environmental results.

“There’s a lot of hard work ahead for Amazon – and the true climate leaders will emerge based on their ability to turn rhetoric into reality. One of the most immediate things Bezos can do for the planet is to use Amazon’s leverage on Capitol Hill. If Amazon uses its political influence to advocate for smart climate policy, lawmakers will listen.

“I’m also inspired by the Amazon employees whose pressure brought the issue of climate leadership to the forefront. We’re already seeing increased pressure on companies from investors and customers, but employee engagement from Amazon could be the tipping point that really moves companies towards meaningful climate action.

“It’s a smart move by Bezos, because young people care deeply about the environmental and social leadership of the companies they buy from and work for. Tomorrow’s climate strike participants are future Amazon customers.”

– Elizabeth Sturcken, Managing Director, EDF+Business