Sustainable IT infrastructure: the future of data centers

Sustainability has become and established itself as a central issue for organizations in all sectors. The IT industry is no exception. 

As the reliance on technology to drive operations and transform businesses grows, and as the volume of data increases, so does increases responsibility for reducing its environmental impact. 

From data center energy consumption to electronic waste generation, the IT infrastructure plays a crucial role in the global ecological footprint, as a strategic solution that combines operational efficiency with environmental commitment. 

This article explores the principles, objectives and benefits of sustainable IT infrastructure, along with strategies for implementing it and the challenges that this entails. 

It also analyses the impact that artificial intelligence, quantum computing, low-impact hardware and advanced renewable energies will have on its future.

How does the IT industry contribute to the global carbon footprint?

Through massive energy consumption in data centers, the production of electronic devices and the generation of technological waste, The IT industry contributes significantly to the global carbon footprint.

During the realization of the Data Centers Day 2024, it was discussed how energy use in the technology sector has registered a significant increase in recent years, mainly due to three factors:

• the growing demand for cloud services;
• data storage;
• information processing. 

Globally, it is estimated that they consume approximately 90 billion kWh per year, which represents between 1% and 3% of electricity consumption, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

The future of the sector poses serious challenges, since according to the forecasts of this organization, AI and cryptocurrencies will double the energy consumption of data centers by 2026.

The outlook is undoubtedly complex for two concurrent reasons: 

• Lack of energy capacity. 
• The need to move towards sustainable operations.

As for the impact of the lack of energy capacity, the situation is clearly reflected in the Global Data Center Trends 2023 from CBRE. 

The report highlights that the global shortage of available energy is inhibiting the growth of the global data center market.

At the same time, environmental concerns and the need for energy-efficient operations are driving interest in sustainability. 

In fact, the report Business Research Insights expresses that a trend in the global data center services market is the increasing integration of renewable energy sources. 

In addition to the problems linked to electricity consumption, hardware manufacturing It is resource intensive and generates emissions from extraction to distribution.. 

Furthermore, the rapid cycle of technological obsolescence aggravates the problem, generating millions of tons of electronic waste each year.

Why is it important to reduce the environmental impact of IT infrastructure?

Minimizing this impact is essential to meet global climate goals and move towards sustainable development. 

But there are also economic reasons. A report by Schneider Electric and Forrester Consulting revealed that Data center vendors' 75% misses investment opportunities due to lack of sustainability. 

In addition, the 83% recognizes the use of ESG (environment, social, governance) aspects as a way to attract new business opportunities. 

In a context in which consumers and regulations demand greater environmental responsibility, The IT industry has the opportunity to be a model of sustainability, by transforming their negative impact into innovative solutions to combat climate change.

In this sense, IT companies can lead the sustainable transition with decisions that involve:

• adopt renewable energy for its operations;
• design more efficient hardware and software;
• promote a circular economy that prioritizes recycling and reuse;
• invest in emissions offset projects, such as reforestation or carbon capture. 

What is sustainable IT infrastructure?

Sustainable IT infrastructure refers to the creation, management and operation of technological systems and resources in a way that Minimize your environmental impact and promote energy efficiency. 

A goal that can be achieved through optimizing the use of resources and reducing carbon emissions, including:

• adoption of practices that promote energy efficiency;
• use of renewable energy;
• hardware and software optimization;
• promotion of recycling;
• reuse of equipment. 

Rather than focusing only on functionality and performance, sustainable IT infrastructure seeks to achieve a balance between technological innovation and environmental responsibility.

The concept ranges from managing more efficient data centers to manufacturing devices with recyclable materials and low environmental impact. 

In this way, it promotes a longer life cycle for the equipment and reduces the generation of electronic waste.

Its main objectives are the following:

1. Reduction of energy consumption. It involves optimizing energy use by adopting renewable sources, server virtualization, and efficient data center design.

2. Reducing electronic waste. It aims at the implementation of policies for reuse, recycling and extending the life cycle of technological devices.

3. Responsible use of resources. This involves prioritising sustainable materials, reducing the use of polluting components and promoting circular economy practices throughout the supply chain.

Adopting a sustainable IT infrastructure not only contributes to protecting the environment. It also generates economic benefits and increases the reputation of companies that align themselves with the values of sustainability and social responsibility.

What are the principles of a sustainable IT infrastructure?

He United Nations Environment Programme (UN) proposes 10 international principles of good practices for sustainable infrastructure, which can be considered by the IT industry.

In particular, the following stand out:

• strategic planning,
• the provision of services in a responsible, resilient and flexible manner,
• comprehensive sustainability life cycle assessment, 
• avoid environmental impacts and 
• promote efficiency in the use of resources,
• Make decisions in a transparent, inclusive, participatory and evidence-based manner
• periodically monitor the performance of the infrastructure and its impacts based on key indicators.

For the specific technological area, we share three principles that not only promote environmental sustainability, but also reduce operating costs and strengthen organizations' commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Energy efficiency

It focuses on reducing energy consumption in IT operations. It involves the adoption of more efficient equipment, the use of advanced cooling technologies in data centers, and the migration to renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. 

In addition, server virtualization and consolidation helps minimize energy waste by optimizing the capacity used.

Resource optimization

IT infrastructure must be designed to maximize the use of available resources. 

This includes:

• implement scalable and flexible architectures that avoid excess hardware;
• adopt cloud solutions to reduce physical impact;
• select sustainable materials in the manufacture of devices.

The objective is do more with less, minimizing both consumption and associated costs.

Recycling and reuse

Extending the lifespan of technological equipment is essential to reducing electronic waste. 

This is achieved through refurbishment programs, donations of unused equipment and efficient recycling systems to recover valuable materials. 

In addition, the modular hardware design allows repair and upgrade components instead of replacing entire devices.

9 benefits of a sustainable IT infrastructure

Among the many advantages that sustainable IT infrastructure provides are the following:

1. Economic:

• Energy efficiency reduces operating costs such as electricity costs, especially in data centers and technological equipment.
• Implementing recycling and reuse strategies extends the life of devices and reduces the need for new purchases.
• Compliance avoids penalties related to environmental regulations and encourages tax incentives for sustainable practices.

2. Environmental:

• The use of renewable energy and resource optimization significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Promoting recycling and reuse minimizes the impact of waste on ecosystems.
• Designing more sustainable infrastructure reduces the extraction of materials such as minerals and water, and promotes the conservation of natural resources.

3. Social:

• A company committed to sustainability attracts consumers and talents who value responsible practices.
• Promotes an organizational culture that prioritizes sustainability and responsible innovation.
• Minimizing environmental impact helps mitigate problems such as climate change, benefiting communities and future generations.

Adopting a sustainable IT infrastructure not only responds to current challenges, but also positions organizations as leaders in the transition towards a more sustainable future.

Strategies for implementing a sustainable IT infrastructure

Strategies linked to the implementation of a sustainable IT infrastructure not only contribute to caring for the environment. They also generate economic savings and strengthen companies' commitment to sustainability. Among them, the following stand out:

1. Use of green energy

The transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind or hydroelectric, is key to reducing carbon emissions. 

This involves supplying data centers and offices with clean energy, as well as investing in renewable energy certificates (REC) to offset the use of non-renewable sources. 

Some companies even build their own renewable energy plants to ensure a sustainable supply.

2. Efficiency in data centers

Optimizing the design and operation of data centers is essential to reducing energy consumption. 

Strategies such as virtualization, server consolidation, and the use of advanced cooling systems, such as free air or liquids, help minimize waste. 

It is also essential to continuously monitor PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness) to identify and improve inefficient areas.

3. Cloud computing

Migrating applications and services to the cloud reduces the need for local physical infrastructure, which decreases resource and energy consumption. 

Cloud service providers typically operate highly efficient data centers, often powered by renewable energy. 

Additionally, cloud scalability allows resources to be used only when needed, preventing oversizing.

4. Sustainable hardware

Adopting equipment designed with recyclable materials and low environmental impact is essential. Prioritizing modular hardware, easy to repair and upgrade, extends its useful life and reduces electronic waste. 

It is also important to select suppliers that meet sustainability standards and promote device recovery and recycling programs.

What challenges does implementing a sustainable IT infrastructure present?

The transition to a sustainable IT infrastructure requires a significant investment in technology and processes. 

Implementing renewable energy, purchasing efficient hardware and modernizing data centers often have high upfront costs that can be a barrier for organizations with limited budgets. 

However, these costs can be offset in the long term by savings in energy and maintenance.

On the other hand, changing towards a sustainable model implies transforming internal processes, training staff and promoting an organizational culture aligned with sustainability. 

Resistance to change and lack of technical knowledge about green strategies can slow down adoption. That is why it is crucial to involve all levels of the organization and provide adequate training to facilitate the transition.

Another challenge lies in the complexity involved in complying with environmental regulations, especially in regions with strict or constantly evolving laws. 

Companies must stay up to date on local and international regulations, such as those related to carbon footprint or electronic waste management. 

Furthermore, ensuring transparency and certification of sustainable practices requires additional resources and ongoing monitoring.

Addressing these challenges with strategic planning and a long-term focus will enable organizations to overcome obstacles and reap the benefits of a sustainable IT infrastructure.

What is the future of sustainable IT infrastructure?

The future of sustainable IT infrastructure is marked by technological innovations that promise to make it even more efficient and environmentally friendly. 

These technologies not only reduce environmental impact, but also drive digital transformation in a responsible manner. Among them, the following stand out:

Artificial intelligence

It is key to intelligently managing energy consumption in data centers and other IT operations. 

Advanced algorithms can predict energy demands, adjust capacity in real time, and optimize cooling systems. 

In addition, AI allows Identify savings opportunities and reduce waste of resources.

Quantum computing

It has the potential to revolutionize IT infrastructure, offering much greater processing power with significantly lower energy consumption. 

This could eliminate the need for large data centers and solve complex sustainability problems such as optimizing power grids or designing eco-friendly materials.

Low environmental impact hardware

Innovation in materials, such as the use of bioplastics, recycled components and sustainable manufacturing technologies, will enable the production of hardware with a smaller environmental footprint. 

Advanced renewable energies

The integration of more efficient renewable sources, such as high-density solar energy and long-life batteries, will transform the way IT infrastructures are powered. 

In addition, energy storage technologies, such as those based on hydrogen, will improve the stability and availability of these sources.

Autonomous IT infrastructure

Autonomous systems powered by AI and IoT sensors will be able to automatically monitor and manage performance, ensuring optimal use of resources with minimal human intervention. 

This includes everything from temperature control in data centers to automatic recycling of obsolete equipment.

Conclusion

In a world increasingly aware of environmental challenges, the implementation of a sustainable IT infrastructure is presented as a necessity and a strategic opportunity for organizations. 

Adopting practices that reduce energy consumption and optimize available resources not only helps mitigate environmental impact, but also boosts operational efficiency and reinforces corporate reputation.

The advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and the use of renewable energy is redefining the future of sustainability in the IT sector. However, achieving significant change requires overcoming challenges such as upfront costs and organizational adaptation. 

With proper planning and a clear commitment, companies can lead the transition towards a more responsible model, contributing to the well-being of the planet and paving the way towards truly sustainable technological development.

At IT Patagonia we help organizations optimize work times, ensure data availability and provide predictability to the business through a rapid-implementation optimization and continuous improvement service. Find out how we do it by clicking here.

Our commitment to sustainability is directly related to the responsibility we assume when certify ourselves as a B Company, which allows us to meet strict verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and responsibility.

Are you interested in finding out how to boost the evolution of your company through technological solutions with a positive impact? Contact us to arrange a meeting with our specialists.