Thursday 16 April 2020
Microsoft unveils ‘Planetary Computer’ to tackle environmental degradation
Microsoft has unveiled a 'Planetary Computer' to tackle environmental degradation, noting that 'a healthy society requires a healthy planet'.
Following the announcement of its goal to become carbon negative by the end of this decade earlier this year, the technology giant has now showcased the second step in its sustainability efforts for 2020, focusing on preserving and protecting the biodiversity and health of the world’s ecosystems.
It promises to deploy technology to protect nature and 'put data and digital technology to work' in the form of its new device to aggregate and analyse environmental data from around the world.
The firm claims the development will enhance environmental decision-making, inform on ecosystem-related public policy issues and help its partners and customers with environmental decision-making, noting that as a business it is committed to supporting public policy initiatives that measure and manage ecosystems at the national and global scale.
The 'Planetary Computer' will provide insights into tree density, land use, the size of forests, water availability, flood risks and global carbon stocks, as well as a range of other factors.
Microsoft has also promised to take responsibility for the ecosystem impacts of its direct operations by protecting more land than it uses by 2025.
The company said: "The clock is ticking on our ability to measure and manage the planet’s natural resources. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognises that the health of people, animals and our shared natural environment are closely connected.
"As we have seen with the wildlife origins of the coronavirus, including SARS and MERS, this link cannot be ignored. We must work together to determine how we maximise the benefits that nature provides to people while minimising the environmental harm of our activities. It won’t be easy, but it is possible if we put the pieces together. It is time to accelerate our work."
