Sustainability in technology
The impact on a low-carbon economy
Technology, media, and communications play a crucial role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. These sectors drive sustainable behavior change and offer technology solutions for sustainable development. However, they also contribute to a growing data carbon footprint.
The telecommunications industry, responsible for 2-3% of global energy demand, is expected to increase energy use by 37% by 2030 with the expansion of 5G networks. Data centers, which consume about 1% of global energy-related carbon emissions, are also growing due to AI and Machine Learning advancements. Despite improvements in energy efficiency since 2010, rapid decarbonization is essential to halve emissions by 2030.
Digital transition
The digital transition presents major growth opportunities, with 2.9 billion people still offline. This connectivity can drive sustainable development and financial inclusion. However, failing to achieve a low-carbon digital world poses risks, including increased costs and reputational damage.
Companies must balance growth with emission reductions through accurate carbon footprinting, particularly in scope 3 emissions. Businesses that position themselves as low-carbon solutions for digital growth will attract investors, governments, employees, customers, and partners.
Much of our work in the technology, media and communication sector has included carbon footprinting, Net zero services, IFRS/CSRD risk management, double materiality, reporting and strategic communications.
Technology case studies
Technology insights
Meet our specialist consultants for technology sustainability
Will Bourns
Solutions Manager – Impacts and Dependencies
Will is the Solutions Manager for the Impacts and Dependencies team at Simply Sustainable. He leads the team supporting clients in developing understanding of the risk and quantifying impact on the society and environment. This ranges from initial carbon footprints to deep dives into specific commodities and dependencies on communities and ecosystems.
Will has experience across a range of sectors from financial institutions to food manufacturers and retailers. His expertise includes carbon footprinting, social value and quantifying the impact of land conversion and deforestation and utilising this data to inform business decisions relating to procurement of goods and future investments.
Will studied Zoology and Natural Sciences at the University of Liverpool and since graduating Will expanded his knowledge through memberships at PIEMA and EI.