Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the semiconductor industry: NXP is taking action!

Semiconductor technology continues to advance, and manufacturing processes are becoming more complex. Semiconductors are shrinking in size, running faster, and requiring more complex production steps, requiring more energy and chemicals in the process. Emissions are also rising. Therefore, the semiconductor industry is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.

To reduce emissions and improve the energy efficiency of the production process, the industry can optimize production lines and invest in renewable energy such as solar or wind power. At the same time, reducing the use of greenhouse gas-intensive materials is also a viable way. For example, nitrogen trifluoride (NF ₃ ) commonly used in semiconductor manufacturing is a potent greenhouse gas that can be replaced with chemicals that have less impact on the environment. Combining these two methods can significantly reduce emissions and help achieve a more sustainable future.

Supply chain management is equally important. Companies can work with suppliers to reduce their own emissions and implement green procurement strategies to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Supply chain management also includes reducing emissions during transportation and ensuring that all products and materials come from sustainable suppliers.

The efforts of each company are important, but reducing the semiconductor industry's environmental impact requires collective action across the industry. Governments and policymakers also play a key role in promoting sustainable manufacturing practices and reducing emissions.

Governments can incentivize companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by implementing carbon pricing or emissions regulations. At the same time, governments can also invest in research and development to support the development of new technologies that are more energy-efficient and have less impact on the environment.

Setting goals and tracking progress are important parts of the process of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. NXP regularly reviews progress towards its sustainability goals, especially in terms of emissions reduction, to ensure that the measures taken by the company are effective.

We measure our carbon footprint against the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol), an internationally recognized standard for quantifying and reporting greenhouse gas emissions. We report on all three categories specified in the protocol: Scope 1 (direct emissions), Scope 2 (indirect emissions, own) and Scope 3 (upstream and downstream emissions).

In summary, greenhouse gas emissions from the semiconductor industry have a significant impact on the environment. By improving energy efficiency, reducing dependence on greenhouse gas-intensive materials, and promoting sustainable supply chain management measures, the semiconductor industry can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to building a more sustainable future. Companies, governments, and policymakers need to work together to reduce the environmental impact of the semiconductor industry and promote sustainable manufacturing practices.