Environmental concerns and sustainability have become key drivers of innovation in companies worldwide. Recognizing the impact of their actions, businesses are adopting initiatives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and implementing corporate sustainability commitments.
The migration to the cloud has been a fundamental aspect of exponential digitization. With the number of global internet users expected to double by 2022, cloud computing faces the challenge of scaling computing capacity while reducing carbon emissions.
Is Cloud Computing Good for the Environment?
Cloud computing has transformed the models of many corporations, offering advantages such as cost savings, unlimited storage, greater flexibility, improved security, and increased competitiveness. However, it also provides an extra benefit: sustainability.
Recent reports reveal that information and communication technologies (ICTs) contribute to approximately 2% of daily CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, cloud computing has emerged as one of the most sustainable and efficient ICTs, saving more than 59 million tons of CO2 and over 200 billion euros in annual savings for companies.
The cloud’s shared computing resources allow for cost reductions of up to 40% and decreased energy consumption and emissions compared to traditional server-based methods. Additionally, data centers are becoming more efficient and intelligent, enabling advanced energy-saving policies. Google, for instance, experienced a 550% increase in data center usage from 2010 to 2018, with energy consumption only increasing by 6% during that period.
Cloud Computing and Sustainability: Examples
Cloud computing has proven to be an effective tool for reducing carbon footprints. Large companies can reduce their carbon footprint per user by up to 30%, while small companies can achieve reductions of up to 90%.
To accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable model, companies should prioritize a cloud-oriented approach. Here are a few examples of cloud computing and sustainability initiatives:
Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability
Microsoft Cloud Computing offers organizations access to a complete, integrated, and automated set of knowledge to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable model. By effectively measuring carbon emissions, businesses can reduce their environmental impact.
Microsoft Emissions Impact Dashboard
The Microsoft Emissions Impact Dashboard provides users with a detailed view of the environmental impact of their technology infrastructures. This platform allows for optimized use of cloud services in Azure, enabling maximum emissions reductions. It even calculates Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions that occur throughout a product’s value chain.
Cloud Computing and Security
Microsoft Azure also offers cloud computing applications focused on sustainability, such as an eco-friendly solution for ticketing management in shipping companies. This project eliminates physical contact between employees and passengers during boarding, enhancing security and real-time passenger identity control. The cloud platform simplifies the process and reduces waste by eliminating the need for printed boarding passes.
Cloud computing has positioned itself as a valuable ally in the journey towards sustainability. Other sustainable technologies, like blockchain-based applications to neutralize carbon footprints and digitization to reduce waste, are also being developed. Stay informed about sustainable technologies for companies by subscribing to our newsletter!
FAQs
Q: How does cloud computing reduce carbon emissions?
A: Cloud computing utilizes shared computing resources, leading to cost reductions, improved energy efficiency, and decreased emissions compared to traditional methods.
Q: Can cloud computing benefit small businesses?
A: Yes, cloud computing can significantly reduce the carbon footprints of small businesses, with potential reductions of up to 90%.
Conclusion
Cloud computing has not only revolutionized the way businesses operate but has also emerged as a powerful tool in combating climate change. Its ability to reduce carbon emissions, increase energy efficiency, and provide cost savings makes it a sustainable choice for companies worldwide. By embracing cloud technology, organizations can contribute to a greener future while enjoying the numerous benefits it offers. Stay tuned to Instant Global News for more insights into sustainable technologies for businesses.