Technology today has become an integral part of our lives, driving innovation and shaping how we live and work. However, as our reliance on technology grows, so does its environmental impact. According to research by Allianz, the information and communications technologies (ICT) sector would be responsible for 830 MT of CO2 emissions by 2030, assuming the emission intensity of electricity used remains unchanged.
This is why organisations are increasingly becoming conscious of prioritising environmental sustainability. One way to mitigate the technology’s environmental impact is by responsibly procuring and selecting IT products and vendors. By making conscious choices and implementing sustainable strategies, you can harness the power of technology while minimising its environmental toll.
Sustainable IT procurement practices have emerged as powerful ways to minimise carbon footprints, reduce e-waste, and foster a more sustainable future. However, when it comes to eco-friendly IT adoption and procurement, your organisation must consider several essential dos and don’ts.
In this blog post, we will explore the top five dos and don’ts of green IT procurement, helping your organisation develop strategies for making informed, sustainable choices.
Dos of Sustainable IT Sourcing and Vendor Selection
1. Do establish clear sustainability criteria
During the asset procurement phase, define clear sustainability criteria and green procurement policies that align with your organization’s environmental goals. These criteria should encompass factors such as devices’ energy efficiency, repairability, reusability, carbon emissions, and overall IT asset lifecycle management until disposal. Without clear sustainable policies and guidelines, individual departments or employees may make ad hoc decisions that fail to align with your organization’s sustainability goals.
Also, setting up these criteria and policies facilitates the evaluation and selection of responsible IT assets and vendors.
2. Do prioritise energy-efficient products
When procuring IT hardware, prioritize products that meet stringent energy efficiency standards, such as ENERGY STAR or EPEAT certification. These certifications ensure that the products meet specific energy consumption, material selection, and end-of-life management criteria, contributing to a reduced environmental footprint.
3. Do evaluate vendors’ sustainability practices
Beyond IT assets, assessing vendors’ overall sustainability practices is crucial. Look for vendors with robust environmental policies, transparent reporting, and a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint throughout their operations and supply chain. This holistic evaluation ensures that your organization partners with companies that share your commitment to sustainability.
4. Do prioritise local sourcing
Local sourcing can contribute to a more sustainable IT supply chain. Partnering with suppliers closer to your business location can help cut emissions associated with transport and logistics. Also, selecting an IT vendor closer to your business can contribute to better and faster availability of support and maintenance of equipment.
5. Do consider eco-friendly packaging
When procuring IT products, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact of packaging and shipping practices. Look for vendors that prioritise sustainable practices, such as right-size packaging and recyclable or biodegradable materials. Additionally, choose vendors that have implemented low-emission shipping methods or offer carbon offsetting initiatives to counterbalance the emissions associated with transportation.
Don’ts of Sustainable IT Sourcing and Vendor Selection
1. Don’t overlook asset lifecycle management
When procuring IT products, it is essential not to overlook the importance of asset lifecycle management. Avoid vendors that offer limited support for upgrades, repairs, or end-of-life recycling options. Instead, prioritise vendors that provide comprehensive IT asset lifecycle services, ensuring that your IT assets are maintained, refurbished, or responsibly recycled at the end of their useful life.
2. Don’t ignore the embodied carbon of tech products
When evaluating tech products, it’s crucial not to overlook their embodied carbon footprint. Embodied carbon refers to the greenhouse gas emissions associated with a product’s manufacturing, transportation, and disposal. Prioritise vendors that transparently report and actively work to reduce the embodied carbon of their products through sustainable sourcing, efficient manufacturing processes, and responsible end-of-life management.
3. Don’t neglect data centre and cloud services
Data centres significantly contribute to the tech industry’s carbon footprint, consuming vast amounts of energy for power and cooling. When adopting new technologies or services, consider the environmental impact of the associated data center operations. Prioritise vendors with sustainable data centre practices, such as energy-efficient cooling systems, renewable energy usage, and advanced power management strategies.
4. Don’t fall for greenwashing
Greenwashing, the practice of making misleading or exaggerated claims about environmental sustainability, is a common concern in the tech industry. Be wary of vendors that make unsubstantiated green claims without providing transparent data or third-party certifications. Conduct thorough research, verify claims, and demand clear evidence of sustainability efforts.
5. Don’t compromise on security and compliance
In the pursuit of sustainability, it is crucial not to compromise on security and compliance standards. Ensure that the green IT products you procure meet all necessary data protection, privacy, and regulatory requirements. Prioritise vendors that have robust security practices and can demonstrate compliance with industry standards.
Ready for Sustainable IT Sourcing?
Implementing green IT procurement and vendor selection practices is a critical step toward building a sustainable future. By adhering to the dos and don’ts outlined in this blog post, organisations can make informed decisions that minimize their environmental impact while fostering long-term growth and profitability.
Additionally, partnering with IT service providers specialising in sustainable solutions can offer expertise, guidance, and access to cutting-edge technologies and practices. These partnerships can accelerate your organisation’s sustainability journey and ensure alignment with industry standards and emerging trends.
At Zones, we understand the importance of environmental sustainability and are committed to supporting our clients’ green IT initiatives.