Technology has invaded every aspect of our lives and the effects of our tech decisions on the environment is one of the most sensitive yet critical issues. As the IT sector continues to expand, it faces a pressing challenge: How to increase profitability via sustainable IT practices, also known as green IT.
ICT is estimated to contribute between 1.8% to 3.9% of the total greenhouse gas emissions in the world. Hence, increased pressure on companies in the sector to adopt greener practices. This blog outlines sustainable IT practices in order to make your IT environment greener and delves deeper into how your organization can save costs, and the planet, at the same time.
What Sustainable IT Practices are Needed:
Data centers are one of the significant culprits. They used 460 TWh in 2022 which is 2% of world electricity consumption, and is expected to double by 2026. Moreover, the increase in the demand for technology leads to about 54 million metric tonnes of e-waste produced annually, and only 20% of the total is recycled.
Improper disposal of this waste releases toxic substances, jeopardizing our soil and water. Tackling these issues is essential for a sustainable future.
How to Boost Sustainability in Your IT Operations
Following sustainable IT practices are central for effectively implementing green practices and increasing your IT Ops sustainability.
Energy Efficiency
Sustainable IT begins with energy efficiency. Optimizing data center management reduces electricity use. Energy-efficient hardware lowers power consumption and heat, cutting cooling needs. Power management software automates idle shutdowns, while low-power processors and efficient cooling systems boost overall efficiency.
Renewable Energy
Switching to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower greatly reduces the carbon footprint of IT operations. This shift cuts reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs. Many tech companies now aim for 100% renewable energy in data centers.
Cloud Computing
Migrating IT workloads to the cloud is a smart move for sustainable IT practices. Cloud solutions reduce the need for physical infrastructure, saving energy and cutting e-waste. Many cloud providers use renewable energy and advanced cooling techniques, making their data centers more efficient than on-premises setups. Plus, the scalability of cloud services enables businesses to grow without adding more servers, reducing manufacturing emissions.
Virtualization
Virtualization enables multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical server, significantly reducing hardware needs. With fewer servers in operation, the overall electricity demand for power and cooling decreases, leading to more sustainable IT environments.
Sustainable Sourcing
Responsible sourcing of IT products from eco-conscious suppliers can significantly lessen the environmental impact of the IT supply chain. This approach involves evaluating the entire process—from raw material extraction to manufacturing and transportation—addressing all factors that contribute to Scope 3 emissions.
Product Lifecycle Management
A sustainable IT strategy addresses the entire product lifecycle, focusing on durable, reusable, and easily repairable products. Effective e-waste management ensures proper disposal and recycling of IT equipment, reducing landfill waste.
Sustainable Software Development
Sustainable software development emphasizes efficient coding to reduce energy consumption. Techniques like optimizing algorithms, minimizing code redundancy and enabling low-power states when idle can make a big impact. Additionally, adaptable software decreases the need for frequent updates, enhancing sustainability.
New Technologies
Emerging technologies like AI and IoT are crucial for enhancing energy efficiency. AI optimizes processes and automates tasks, reducing energy consumption. IoT devices monitor real-time energy use, such as smart thermostats adjusting cooling in data centers, significantly cutting waste.
