What Are the Benefits of Green IT?

The production, use and disposal of electronic devices contribute to the depletion of natural resources, pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing Green IT practices, companies can reduce their carbon footprint, achieve economic viability and improve system performance and use, while abiding by social and ethical responsibilities.  

Green IT, also referred to as Green Computing or Sustainable IT, is the study and practice of designing, manufacturing, using and disposing of computers, servers and associated devices and subsystems efficiently and effectively, with minimal or no impact on the environment.

The challenges of implementing Green IT

1. High initial costs: Implementing Green IT solutions often requires significant upfront investment in energy-efficient hardware and infrastructure.
2. Complexity: Modern IT systems rely on a complicated mix of people, networks and hardware, making it challenging to implement green computing initiatives.
3. Regulatory compliance: Ensuring compliance with various environmental regulations can be complex and time-consuming.
4. Lack of awareness: There is often a lack of awareness and understanding of the benefits and practices of Green IT among stakeholders.

Understanding the benefits of Green IT

1. Environmental benefits: Reduces the environmental footprint of IT through sustainable practices, energy-efficient hardware and reduced resource consumption.
2. Cost savings: Green IT can lead to significant cost savings by reducing power consumption and increasing product longevity.
3. Improved brand reputation: Companies that adopt Green IT practices can enhance their brand reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
4. Regulatory compliance: Helps companies comply with environmental regulations and avoid potential fines.

By adopting Green IT practices, companies can not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also achieve economic benefits and improve their overall system performance.

HCLTech: At the forefront of Green IT

HCLTech has been at the forefront of implementing Green IT practices in its operations. In our Sustainability Report 2024, we highlight several initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.

One of the key initiatives highlighted in the report is HCLTech’s efforts to reduce energy consumption in our data centers. We have implemented several measures such as virtualization, consolidation and optimization of IT infrastructure to reduce energy consumption, while also investing in renewable energy sources to power our data centers and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Our commitment to energy efficiency encompasses a wide array of initiatives and the widespread adoption of energy-efficient technologies aimed at conserving energy and reducing emissions across our global operations.

• Technology optimization: We have implemented daylight sensors and energy-efficient lighting solutions throughout our facilities, complemented by the integration of smart energy meters. This concerted effort has resulted in a noticeable reduction in overall emissions, contributing to our sustainability goals
• Chiller performance: Significant enhancements in our chiller systems at key facilities have led to the conservation of 58 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy and a reduction of 48 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) in emissions
• HVAC enhancements: Our major facilities have undergone energy-efficient upgrades and operational improvements in HVAC systems, resulting in substantial energy savings of 615 MWh and a reduction of 506 tCO2e in emissions
• LED lighting: The transition to LED lighting across workspaces, cafeterias, pathways and outdoor areas, coupled with the integration of motion sensors and daylight harvesting techniques, has yielded remarkable energy savings of 1,757 MWh and a reduction of 1,446 tCO2e in emissions
• UPS system optimization: Through strategic adjustments to the capacity of our UPS systems based on load demand and the activation of passive filters, we have achieved energy savings of 406 MWh and a decrease in emissions by 335 tCO2e
• Building management systems: A comprehensive overhaul of our Building Management Systems (BMS) in phases 1 and 2, focusing on AHU control, has resulted in the conservation of 148 MWh of energy and a reduction of 121 tCO2e in emissions

HCLTech sustainability report for 2023-24

Among the updates to note:

• In FY23-24, we transitioned to LED lighting across our facilities. This switch not only reduces our energy consumption but also minimizes our mercury footprint, contributing to more responsible e-waste management practices
• Furthermore, we partner with recyclers authorized by the pollution control board and conduct thorough due diligence on all vendors to ensure proper handling and disposal of each waste stream
• We implement source separation of all waste types, storing them in designated yards and strictly adhere to national environmental regulations to reintroduce waste materials back into the manufacturing cycle. Additionally, we actively source from suppliers who use sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials, eliminating single-use plastics and thermocol
• Finally, we meticulously track the generation, storage and disposal of e-waste and other hazardous waste like batteries, lube oil and oil-contaminated materials. This data informs our waste reduction strategies and best practices. We conduct regular training sessions for staff involved in waste management, focusing on health and safety protocols and emergency preparedness

Every person can contribute to Green IT by taking simple steps such as:

• Reducing energy consumption by turning off electronic devices when not in use, using power-saving modes and unplugging chargers
• Recycling electronic waste responsibly by disposing of it at designated e-waste collection centers or through take-back programs offered by manufacturers
• Choosing energy-efficient devices and products that have been designed with sustainability in mind
• Supporting companies that have a strong commitment to sustainability and Green IT practices

By taking these small steps, every person can make a difference and contribute to the promotion of Green IT.

Looking ahead, HCLTech's Sustainability Report 2024 provides several examples of how we are implementing Green IT practices in its operations. These initiatives not only help to reduce the company's carbon footprint but also promote sustainable practices in the wider community.

Author Christina Herden is director of corporate sustainability at HCLTech. Related: Read more HCLTech guest blogs here.