Microsoft, Starbucks, Nike set goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050

Microsoft, Starbucks and Nike joined the heads of six other companies in an initiative launched Tuesday that has a goal of transitioning to net zero emissions by 2050. 

The Transform to Net Zero initiative will focus on enabling the business transformation needed to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, with a focus on policy, innovation and finance, according to the initiative’s statement. 

Other founding members included A.P. Moller-Maersk, Danone, Mercedes-Benz, Natura & Co, Unilever and the Environmental Defense Fund. The initiative is supported by BSR, a global nonprofit that works with a network of companies with a goal of building a sustainable world. 

The initiative said the companies involved will focus on translating commitments into action, including through corporate strategy, governance and accountability, as well as innovation and marketing. 

The group’s members will also aim to collaborate with existing net zero initiatives to leverage existing work and advance business transmission to reach its net zero emission goal, as well as push to advance public policy that enables and accelerates progress towards its net zero goal. 

“Starbucks aspires to be a resource-positive company by building on our long history in sustainability. Joining Transform to Net Zero aligned with our aspiration for a more sustainable future,” said Starbucks President and CEO Kevin Johnson. “Partnering with other like-minded companies, we will open-source best practices, advocate for positive government policies, and support a just transition. We believe in driving real change and encourage other organizations to join us in this critical effort for humanity.”

Nike COO Andy Champion said there “isn’t a moment to lose” when it comes to “protecting the playing field we share — our planet.” 

“That’s why we aren’t waiting for solutions to climate change, we’re coming together as global leaders to create them. If we act now, and work together, we can drive meaningful progress toward a more sustainable future. We’ll be relentless in our pursuit of ensuring a healthy planet for generations of athletes to come,” Champion said in the release.