Sustainability ICT

Sustainability ICT sector requires balance

ICT offers countless opportunities for more sustainable working, such as working from home, online meetings, and process automation. At the same time, technology itself has a significant ecological footprint. Consider the energy consumption of data centers and the production of hardware such as laptops, routers, and switches.

What does SBA do?

At SBA, we take sustainability seriously. We utilize data centers that actively pursue environmentally friendly solutions, such as 100% wind energy and innovative climate control. We also collaborate with suppliers who have integrated sustainability into their business practices. Hardware returned to us gets a second life: we recycle where necessary or donate equipment to organizations that can put it to good use, from local initiatives to companies with limited resources.

Data centers and sustainability

Data centers are a key component of many infrastructures – the beating heart of the digital world. They ensure data is always available, but they also consume a lot of energy. Globally, data centers account for approximately 1% of total energy consumption, and in the Netherlands, that percentage is considerably higher. Therefore, it’s crucial that these centers become more sustainable. Fortunately, a growing number of data centers run on 100% renewable energy, utilize innovative climate control systems, and strive for a low PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness), a measure of energy efficiency. By consciously choosing these types of sustainable solutions, organizations reduce their ecological footprint.

A little better every day

Fortunately, as a user, you can do a lot to reduce that impact. Think, for example, of (old) files, duplicate photos, and overflowing mailboxes. Everything you save is stored somewhere. That takes energy. By regularly cleaning up, you prevent unnecessary strain on data centers.

Also, use AI tools like ChatGPT consciously. They're convenient, but they consume a lot of energy. A single prompt can use more power than making a cup of coffee. And if you need a new device, consider a refurbished model. Small, smart choices like this can make a big difference for the environment.

Ambassadors 'Paperless Office'

At SBA, we've consciously opted for a digital work environment. Everything we do is paperless, from notes and reports to our communication. Not only because it's our specialty, but every printout uses raw materials, energy, and ultimately waste.

For example, a single A4 sheet of paper requires an average of 10 liters of water, and the paper industry is responsible for approximately 4% of total global energy consumption. By critically examining what you print, or better yet, not printing at all, you contribute to less waste and a more sustainable way of working.

Sustainability ICT