Climate change is an existential threat.
We’re already seeing devastating climate impacts: unprecedented flooding in India and Mozambique, dry water wells in Africa, coastal displacement in Asia, wildfires and floods in North America, and crop failure in Latin America.
Amazon’s employees demand its leadership in this context too.
They want a company-wide plan to reach zero carbon emissions within the timeline required by science. Their goal to reach 100% renewable energy does not have a date for completion. In addition, Shipment Zero does not commit to a decrease in emissions compared to current levels.
They demand the following from Amazon –
- Public goals and timelines consistent with science and the IPCC report.
- A complete transition away from fossil fuels.
- Prioritization of climate impact when making business decisions.
- Reduction of harm to the most vulnerable communities first.
- Fair treatment of all employees during climate disruptions and extreme weather events.
Given Amazon’s rate of growth, reaching 50% net-zero shipments by 2030 could still be an increase in emissions compared to today.
“In our mission to become ‘Earth’s most customer-centric company,’ we believe our climate impact must be a top consideration in everything we do. We have the power to shift entire industries, inspire global action on climate, and lead on the issue of our lifetimes.”
Many Amazon employees receive stock in the company as part of their compensation package. It allows them to propose corporate resolutions that must then be addressed at annual meetings. That is precisely what the activist employees have done.
Reference- Clean Technica, CBS news website, News Week