The issue of digital pollution is currently a hot topic in France and around the world. The use of computer equipment and new technologies is now an integral part of the daily lives of the French, both in their professional and personal spheres.
However, even if it is less visible, the digital pollution caused by these practices is very real.
What is digital pollution ?
According to Greenpeace, the negative effects of the computer industry on the environment are referred to as “digital pollution” in the USA. This mainly concerns CO2 emissions from information and communication technologies. However, it can also manifest in other forms.
Indeed, the term digital pollution also encompasses chemical contaminations, particularly those caused by heavy metals such as lithium. It also involves managing electronic waste, including those that are not recyclable, and addressing the impact of computer equipment production on biodiversity. As we increasingly rely on digitization, the cost of energy is significantly increasing. Data centers that store information and enable internet access consume a huge amount of electricity. The carbon footprint of digital technology continues to deepen.
Promoting digital sobriety to combat digital pollution
Wikipedia defines digital sobriety as follows« Digital sobriety is an approach aimed at reducing the environmental impact of digital technology by limiting its usage, and constitutes one aspect of sustainable computing. The term “digital sobriety” was defined in 2008 by the association GreenIT.fr to designate “the approach of designing digital services that are more frugal and moderating one’s daily digital usage ».
Practicing digital sobriety thus means making responsible use of one’s computing resources. QED ! Making responsible use of digital technology will help limit its environmental impact.
According to the Prospective Evaluation of The environmental impact of digital technology in France, Carried out jointly by ADEME and ARCEP and published in March 2023, the implementation of digital sobriety measures combined with the systematization of eco-design could lead to a reduction in the environmental footprint of digital technology by 2030, with a potential decrease of up to 16% in carbon footprint compared to 2020.
So what are we waiting for to get started ?
How does Green IT contribute to digital sobriety ?
Since 2014, there has been more talk of “responsible digital” to emphasize that this approach goes beyond simply reducing environmental impacts, also encompassing social and economic aspects. Over time, the term “sustainable” has become widely associated with environmental considerations in public opinion.
The concept of responsible digital breaks down into three main levels: Green IT 1.0, Green IT 1.5, and Green IT 2.0. These categories do not represent a linear progression, but rather three distinct areas with different actors, decision-making processes, and budgets. Many organizations are conducting simultaneous projects in these three areas to meet their specific needs.
Green IT 1 - Implementing good practices of digital sobriety
Green IT 1.5 - Deploying measures to reduce the impact of IS
Green IT 2 - Betting on eco-design
How to implement a digital sobriety strategy in 2024 ?
For a company, responsible digital should not be the result of isolated action. On the contrary, its adoption is part of a broader environmental perspective, particularly in the context of implementing a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Acting in a methodical and measurable manner
- The first step for the company should be to recognize the services and equipment that have a high environmental impact. This includes energy consumption, waste production, and the use of natural resources.
- This assessment should lead to the development of a responsible strategy, containing specific and measurable objectives.
- Subsequently, the actions implemented will need to be regularly evaluated.
To ensure that digital sobriety is fully effective, it must be part of a collective approach. Even if it originates from the Management, it must involve all departments of the company. Raising awareness and training employees are essential, as with any CSR or change management initiative.
Deploying Green WiFi solutions
At Green WiFi, we are committed to reimagining connectivity to address current challenges while preserving our planet. Our innovative approach aims to reduce the carbon footprint of connectivity throughout its value chain. There are many levers of action: choosing eco-friendly technologies, optimizing IT resources, promoting equipment durability, ensuring reliable performance, contributing to reforestation… all while addressing certain regulatory issues.
