Climate change – a hidden risk to your semiconductor supply

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  • Insight
  • 2 minute read
  • July 08, 2025

A third of the global semiconductor supply could be disrupted by accelerating climate change within a decade, unless industries take action to adapt.

Today’s global supply chains rely on semiconductors. They are embedded in everything from computers and phones to cars and washing machines. It’s hard to think of a company that doesn’t rely on semiconductors in some way. We also need semiconductors to seize the potential of AI, for quantum computing, and to transition to renewable energy.

But the copper needed to make semiconductors is at risk from drought caused by climate change. If we don’t adapt, within ten years a third of all semiconductor production will be reliant on copper at risk from climate disruption. By 2050, it could be nearly double that. That’s a lot - and it shows why action is needed now.

Let’s work together to understand your risks and build resilience

If your company relies on semiconductors, we can help you map and manage your risks.

And we can help businesses across sectors manage the risks of climate change on supply chains and operations.

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See how climate change threatens global semiconductor supply

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Transcript

“Semiconductors are the hidden lifeblood of modern technology, embedded in everything from computers and phones to cars and washing machines. That means disruption to the semiconductor supply can have severe economic consequences. A reliable supply of semiconductors is essential to economic stability and growth.”

Glenn Burm,PwC Global Semiconductor Leader, Partner, PwC Korea

Climate adaptation and resilience are vital to any company’s risk management strategy. It also presents opportunities to innovate new products, services and technologies.

Learn how businesses can take steps to protect their supply chains

(PDF of 2.0MB)

Further insights

Contacts

Lynne Baber
Lynne Baber

Global Sustainability Deputy Leader, Partner, PwC United Kingdom

Glenn Burm
Glenn Burm

Global Semiconductors Leader, PwC United States

Steve Bochanski
Steve Bochanski

Principal, Climate Risk Modeling Leader, Sustainability, PwC United States

Renate de Lange
Renate de Lange

Sustainability Leader, Global Tax & Legal Services, PwC Netherlands

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