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Amkor Technology announced comprehensive environmental safeguards for its planned $2 billion semiconductor testing and packaging facility in Peoria, Arizona, during a recent webinar addressing the company’s commitment to air quality protection.

David McCann, senior vice president at Amkor, outlined the company’s environmental policies and the multiple systems that will protect air quality at the facility, which will create 2,000 local jobs and support the nation’s critical semiconductor supply chain.

Net-Zero Emissions Goal

Amkor has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with an interim target of reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 55% by 2033. The Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) has verified both the company’s near-term and long-term targets.

The company aligns with leading industry frameworks, including the Responsible Business Alliance, the Responsible Mineral Initiative and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board. Amkor has also pledged to reduce water usage and waste generation by 20% by 2030.

Hospital-Grade Air Quality Standards

The semiconductor facility will maintain air quality standards that exceed those of hospital operating rooms. This is achieved through a sophisticated filtration system that pulls outside air through specialized HEPA filters to remove particles.

The facility uses a top-down airflow system where air is forced downward from ceiling vents to collecting vents beneath the floor. This established semiconductor industry process pushes remaining particles downward for capture by filters before air recirculation.

Workers in the clean room wear full-body protective garments, commonly called “bunny suits,” that cover them from head to toe. Before entering the clean room, personnel pass through an air shower that further reduces particles they might carry into the controlled environment.

Advanced Emissions Control Systems

Before air returns to the outside environment, Amkor removes particles and emissions through a dual-system approach. A scrubber system captures and dissolves particles and emissions by spraying water through the air, with the generated wastewater sent to a treatment facility.

Organic compounds, air pollutants and odors are eliminated by heating the air and converting these compounds to carbon dioxide and water. The company maintains duplicate systems to enable periodic maintenance and ensure functional backup capabilities.

Exceeding Legal Requirements

Amkor’s environmental commitment includes keeping emissions 55% below legal limits. The company ensures all emissions remain lower than local, state and federal emission limits.

“It’s important to us to be responsible stewards of the land, air and water,” McCann said during the webinar, noting that Amkor has been based in Arizona for decades.

The Peoria facility represents a significant investment in America’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities while maintaining strict environmental standards.