How can semiconductor manufacturers reduce their CO2 emissions

　　Semiconductor manufacturers can’t reduce CO2 emissions and energy consumption without digital technology and an end-to-end strategy

　　Semiconductor manufacturers are in a challenging position – they need to fulfill soaring chip demand while at the same time decarburizing their supply chain. The industry already has a giant carbon footprint and as it grows, so does its carbon footprint.

　　Semiconductors facilitate the ongoing shift from traditional vehicles to mobility solutions: focussing on connectivity, autonomous driving, electrification and low carbon mobility. Semiconductors help redefine mobility, reduce emissions and help alleviate congestion.

　　Emission reduction in vehicles and in transportation systems is made possible by semiconductor-based in-vehicle networks and sensors that increase fuel efficiency by reducing vehicle weight. Battery control and energy management semiconductor solutions extend the distance range of electric and hybrid transport and improve the predictability of that range: increased distance range is key to mass adoption of Electric vehicles.

　　Certain companies in the semiconductor industry have focused on sustainability for a significant period of time. ST Microelectronics and Intel have long records of focusing on water conservation and programs to reduce power. However, the Paris Accord and the recent article published in Bloomberg, accusing the semiconductor industry of having a giant carbon footprint, have initiated a new call to arms, or at least a more concerted effort on reducing the semiconductor industries carbon footprint.

　　Sustainability can be challenging, and while larger companies can dedicate resources to focusing on sustainability, smaller companies that support the semiconductor industry may not be able to support a dedicated Environmental Social Governance (ESG program). SEMI has picked up the ball over the past year and now is working to provide guidance and eventually standards such that the semiconductor manufacturing community can address sustainability as an industry, instead of company by company.