In the age of digitization and “all-digital”, companies are not always aware of the environmental impact of information technologies. The virtual and intangible nature of new technologies often gives the impression that they are environmentally neutral.
However, this sector still emits a significant amount of greenhouse gases, accounting for around 4% of global emissions.
Green IT for responsible digital practices
The idea of Green IT was born out of companies’ growing awareness of the impact of digital pollution, which may be invisible but whose effects are tangible. Its aim is to promote a sustainable digital world and reduce the carbon footprint of information technologies. Here are the essentials for understanding the Green IT concept and making your digital practices more environmentally friendly.
The origins of sustainable computing
The concept of IT sustainability is not new. As early as the 90s, various companies began to question the environmental impact of digital technology. At the time, the US government was implementing measures to reduce the ecological cost of IT devices.
The emergence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) led to serious consideration of environmentally-friendly digital practices. Computers and servers consume a significant amount of energy, making the greening of information and communication technologies (ICT) essential, given that they are the main means of communication on a global scale.
Green IT definition
The concept of Green IT, also known as green computing, refers to the use of sustainable technologies and practices in computing. This includes reducing energy consumption, properly disposing of electronic waste and promoting energy efficiency in data centers. In other words, Green IT aims to minimize the negative environmental impact of the IT industry by adopting environmentally-friendly solutions.
The term “Green IT” encompasses two distinct aspects of “green computing”:
Green For IT
refers to the various techniques used to minimize the environmental impact of digital technologies.
IT for Green
refers to technologies that help companies reduce their carbon footprint.
In other words, Green IT encompasses both the drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from digital technologies, and the use of IT tools to enable businesses to adopt sustainable practices. The common objective is to move towards environmentally-friendly digital practices.
What are the pillars of Green IT?
Responsible information and communication technologies are defined as a global approach to reducing the environmental impact of the IT industry. This translates into :
- Optimization of IT resources (data centers, network management);
- Energy savings, particularly in terms of data storage and mobile or web communication flows;
- Eco-responsible product design (recycling, no recourse to programmed obsolescence, design of repairable equipment, production of spare parts over several years, etc.);
- Public awareness campaigns on digital pollution and eco-responsible practices;
- Regular monitoring of the effectiveness of measures implemented to limit digital greenhouse gas emissions.
The implementation of these various measures will enable us to control the energy consumption of the IT industry, while taking into account the societal challenges associated with digital technology.
Optimizing IT resources for a more responsible digital future
Optimization of IT resources (data center, network management)
Saving energy and reducing the carbon footprint of digital technology
Energy savings, particularly in terms of data storage and mobile or web communication flows
Designing eco-responsible, sustainable products
Eco-responsible product design (recycling, no recourse to programmed obsolescence, design of repairable equipment, production of spare parts over several years, etc.).
Raising public awareness of digital pollution and eco-responsible practices
Initiatives to raise public awareness of digital pollution and eco-responsible practices
Monitoring and improving the environmental impact of digital technology
Regular monitoring of the effectiveness of measures implemented to limit digital greenhouse gas emissions.
Implementing these different approaches will enable us to control the energy consumption of the IT industry, while taking into account the societal challenges posed by digital technology.
How important is it to aim for digital sustainability?
According to a research published in March 2023 by Arcep and Ademe, the environmental impact of digital activities is set to increase considerably by 2050, unless measures are taken to promote environmentally-friendly computing practices. Today, it is undeniable that ICT must adopt an eco-responsible approach and integrate the principles of sustainable development.
The manufacture of IT equipment consumes a significant amount of natural resources. As this equipment is used more and more, it is essential to rethink manufacturing processes and use sustainable components.
The issue of recycling electronic waste is a major concern in the field of sustainable technologies. This waste often contains toxic substances and, if not recycled, can contribute to air and soil pollution.
Green WiFi, our approach to Green IT
In this context of Green IT, Green WiFi is committed to helping all businesses reinvent their connectivity and reduce their impact through the implementation of energy-efficient and sustainable solutions.
- By promoting the energy efficiency of networks and raising our customers’ awareness of good digital practices, we are helping to reduce the carbon footprint of digital technology.
- By supporting businesses in their choice of technologies and promoting responsible network infrastructures, we encourage the transition to a more sustainable digital model.
