| |October 20219on overall energy consumption in data centers. With this, most Google data centers are approximately 50 percent more energy efficient than others in the market. With tech giants such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google achieving this level of energy efficiency for their data centers, it builds a clear case for organizations to move their data to cloud. Adopting the principles of a circular economy is vital for sustainability and reducing business risk and increasing profitability. Apple retrieved61 million pounds of reusable raw materials from discarded iPhones using cutting-edge robotics. For e-waste management in other industries, organizations need to procure energy-efficient hardware with a trade-in or trade-up option at the end of the asset lifecycle. Another alternative is choosing a trusted and reliable recycling partner to dispose or recycle hardware while meeting regulations (particularly removing data from devices).Prioritizing Sustainable IT For The FutureDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, it was IT that led the fast-paced digital revolution, enabling remote working and digital collaboration. Consequently, tech giants are expected to demonstrate similar leadership in the Green (IT) revolution too. Globally, they are spearheading this revolution with specific use cases, which could inspire other sectors.Closer home, cleantech startups and new-age tech companies in India are driving innovative sustainable IT solutions. Flipkart, with its acquisition of Jeeves and F1, is recycling old devices and has created an independent platform for refurbished devices (2GUD.com). Additionally, there are re-commerce startups like Budli for IT hardware waste management, specifically recycling and refurbishing electronic devices, thus lengthening the lifecycles of devices. Another example is an IIT-alumni setup/IIM-incubated cleantech company called Skilancer Solar, which provides robotic automation and AI-driven solar panel cleaning solutions without water and manual intervention. There are also building-energy management solution startups like Podnet that claim to save up to 40 percent energy with AI and IoT. Outside these small pockets of innovation, prioritizing sustainable IT in India still needs a significant push. Globally, CXOs have cited implementation challenges as a major reason for not prioritizing Sustainable IT initiatives. Lack of expertise and advisory for identification of correct use cases, implementation costs and impact on business continuity are the biggest challenges perceived by the C-suite.The Way Ahead...The abrupt, and harsh, nature of the pandemic had created significant concern initially due to its impact on Sustainable IT. However, the pandemic is now being seen as a humbling experience and an emphatic reminder of the criticality of Sustainability, of which Green IT is a key component.Sustainable IT, led by the tech industry, has the potential to steer the world towards resolving environmental challenges. With a clear strategy and roadmap in place, not only will Enterprise IT's environment footprint become greener, but smart and emerging technologies can be leveraged to drive critical innovations in sustainability. Sustainable IT, led by the tech industry, has the potential to steer the world towards resolving environmental challenges
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