Sustainability is often perceived as a buzzword that has found its way into various industries - including IT. But while other trends come and go, it has become clear that sustainable practices in IT are far more than just short-term hype. They are an absolute necessity in order to overcome ecological, economic and social challenges. But why exactly has sustainability become indispensable in IT?
1. the growing ecological footprint of IT
The digital revolution has changed the world, but it has also brought with it considerable environmental problems. According to a study, the IT industry causes around 2-3 % of global CO₂ emissions - and this figure continues to rise. Factors such as the high energy consumption of data centers, the resources required for hardware production and the growing quantities of electronic waste contribute to this.
Electronic waste: a global problem
In 2023, more than 50 million tons of electronic waste were produced, of which less than 20 % were properly recycled. Obsolete hardware often ends up in landfill sites, where it releases toxic substances such as lead, mercury or cadmium. A sustainable IT strategy that focuses on repair, reuse and recycling is therefore essential to minimize this impact.
2. economic benefits of sustainable IT
Sustainability is not only good for the environment, but also for the balance sheet. Companies that make their IT sustainable can save considerable costs and achieve long-term competitive advantages.
Extending the service life of hardware
Extending the service life of IT equipment through maintenance, upgrades or professional IT remarketing reduces acquisition costs and the need for new production. Second IT, for example, offers solutions that support companies in this, efficiently resell used IT hardware or prepare them.
Energy efficiency pays off
Optimizing energy consumption - for example by using energy-efficient data centers or switching to cloud solutions - not only lowers electricity costs, but also reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
3. regulations and social pressure
More and more governments are imposing stricter environmental regulations on companies. Directives such as the EU directive on extended producer responsibility or the Sustainability reporting obligation make it essential for companies to develop sustainable IT strategies.
Customers and investors are also increasingly demanding sustainable practices. In a survey 76 % of consumers that they prefer to buy from companies that take responsibility for their environmental impact. Sustainable IT is therefore also an image factor that creates trust.
4. innovation potential through sustainability
Sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. Companies that focus on sustainable IT benefit from new technologies and approaches such as:
- Circular economyFrom the linear model of "buy, use, throw away" to "use, upgrade, reuse".
- Green ITTechnologies that conserve resources, such as servers with low energy requirements or software solutions for optimizing workloads.
- Cloud computingOutsourcing computing processes to the cloud reduces hardware requirements and energy consumption.
5 Sustainability as a competitive advantage
Companies that focus on sustainable IT at an early stage position themselves as pioneers. They not only meet regulatory requirements, but also attract talented employees who value responsible action. They can also impress partners and customers with their clear strategy.
For example, the introduction of a certified process for the BSI-compliant data erasure organizations can recycle old devices safely and sustainably - a clear advantage over competitors who do not take such measures.
Conclusion: The future is green - even in IT
Sustainability in IT is no longer an option, but an obligation. Companies that invest in sustainable practices today will benefit in the long term through lower costs, greater efficiency and a better image. It is time to actively shape change - for a future worth living and an IT that is not only innovative but also responsible.
👉 Want to find out more about sustainable IT strategies and remarketing? Be inspired by how your IT can also become a driver for sustainability.
