How Using Sustainable IT Practices can help SMEs on their Carbon Net Zero journey 

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly aware of the need to contribute to carbon net-zero goals, and one of the most effective ways to make a meaningful impact is by updating computer equipment and moving services into the cloud. While this may seem like a small shift, transitioning to efficient IT infrastructure and offsite data management can significantly reduce the carbon footprint. Here’s how SMEs can begin their journey toward sustainability with these tech-based strategies. 

Why IT Infrastructure Matters for Carbon Emissions

For many SMEs, computer equipment and onsite servers contribute significantly to their carbon emissions. This is primarily due to the energy required to run hardware, maintain temperature controls, and manage other physical resources. Traditional servers are power-intensive, and when they’re hosted onsite, they require dedicated space, cooling systems, and constant maintenance, all of which add up in terms of energy consumption. 

According to research, data centres account for roughly 1% of global electricity use, and this is only projected to increase with the demand for data. By moving IT infrastructure to the cloud and updating equipment to energy-efficient options, SMEs can substantially cut down on their environmental impact. 

Upgrading IT equipment to more modern energy-efficient models

One of the simplest steps toward reducing carbon emissions is upgrading computer equipment to more energy-efficient models. Most hardware manufacturers have developed products that consume less power and offer longer lifespans. For instance, laptops generally consume less energy than desktop computers. Replacing older desktop computers with modern, energy-efficient laptops or desktops can cut down on electricity usage and reduce overall energy costs. 

SMEs can choose hardware certified by the UK’s Energy Technology List (ETL), managed by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). The ETL is a government-backed program that lists energy-efficient equipment which meets strict criteria for energy performance. By choosing ETL-approved models, businesses can ensure their equipment is highly efficient, reducing both energy costs and environmental impact. Many modern computers now come with energy-saving settings and power management options that lower power consumption during inactivity, which can lead to significant energy savings over time. 

Moving Data and Applications to the Cloud

Perhaps the most significant change SMEs can make is moving their data storage and applications to the cloud. By shifting to cloud-based solutions, businesses no longer need to rely on energy-consuming onsite servers. Cloud providers, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, operate data centres that are optimised for energy efficiency and often powered by renewable energy sources. 

Cloud providers are committed to sustainability and have made significant investments in renewable energy and efficient infrastructure. In fact, in their 2020 report “The Green Behind the Cloud" Accenture found that moving to the cloud can reduce a company’s energy consumption by up to 65% and carbon emissions by as much as 84%. This is because cloud providers use sophisticated energy management systems and server utilization strategies that an SME could not replicate with in-house servers. 

Utilising Cloud Services to Reduce IT Waste

Another advantage of cloud solutions is the reduction of electronic waste, which is an often-overlooked aspect of an SME’s environmental footprint. By moving to the cloud, SMEs no longer need to purchase, maintain, or eventually discard physical servers. This helps extend the lifecycle of IT equipment, leading to less e-waste in landfills. Cloud providers are also investing in recycling and repurposing their hardware, which further reduces the environmental impact. 

Optimising Business Processes with Cloud-Based Collaboration Tools

Cloud services offer access to a range of collaboration and productivity tools that can streamline operations and reduce the need for physical office space. For example, tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack and Google Workspace, enable remote work and reduce commuting, thereby lowering a company’s carbon footprint. The cloud can also facilitate digital meetings and virtual file storage, which cuts down on paper waste and energy spent on commuting. 

Monitoring and Managing Energy Consumption Through the Cloud

One of the key benefits of cloud computing is its ability to provide insights into resource usage. Cloud providers offer detailed analytics that help businesses understand and track their energy consumption and environmental impact. By monitoring their carbon footprint in real-time, SMEs can take actionable steps toward improvement. Cloud platforms, such as Microsoft Azure, provide carbon tracking tools that let users monitor their carbon footprint and help them make greener choices. 

Cost Savings and the Competitive Advantage of Sustainability

In addition to environmental benefits, adopting a sustainable IT infrastructure can lead to cost savings. Energy-efficient equipment and cloud solutions typically reduce operating costs, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. as consumers and larger corporations increasingly prefer eco-conscious partners, SMEs can use their sustainability efforts as a marketing advantage. A commitment to net-zero practices demonstrates corporate responsibility and can help attract like-minded clients and customers. 

Conclusion 

For SMEs aiming to achieve carbon net-zero goals, updating computer equipment and moving services into the cloud are practical, cost-effective steps to take. Energy-efficient hardware reduces electricity usage, while cloud-based solutions offer a streamlined, environmentally friendly way to manage data and business operations. Not only do these steps reduce carbon emissions, but they also lower operating costs and enhance corporate responsibility. By adopting sustainable IT practices, SMEs can make a significant contribution to a greener future, while benefiting their bottom line and reputation in an increasingly eco-conscious marketplace.