Information Technology Vendors Are Getting Greener, Says ABI Research
New York, October 17, 2008
Most of us are aware of the major environmental issues and some of thing things we can do about them: save energy, reduce CO2, recycle, don’t pollute. But most workers in the industrialized world use computers and computer networks every day, and don’t give a thought to their environmental impact.
For example, in one year a 1U rack switch with 24 Ethernet ports in continuous use will consume 2190 expensive kWh, and the coal used to generate that power will release two tons of CO2 along with other pollutants.
Now, according to ABI Research vice president Stan Schatt, “IT equipment vendors are finding that they are expected to ‘walk the green walk’ as well as ‘talk the talk.’ The result is that many vendors have consolidated older, energy inefficient data centers and created their own ‘green’ data centers. Their goal is to show customers that their equipment’s green features really can result in significant energy reduction and cost savings. Of course, these vendors have also been able to lower their own bottom lines.”
A number of factors driving the market increase in “green” branded products, including but not restricted to:
* Regulatory requirements: the EU, China, and South Korea all impose regulations on all IT imports, covering hazardous materials, recyclability, and other risks.
* Cost and space savings: the increasing cost of electricity and of cooling means that green initiatives can save money.
* Procurement policies: enterprises are adding “green” purchasing criteria and already consider a vendor’s commitment to the environment as a check-off item.
* “Green” branding: some vendors have embraced everything “green” and have been quick to label themselves as “green” while others have been far more cautious due to their concerns about being labeled as “greenwashers.”
Schatt concludes, “Even companies that have not led in environmental concern are starting to realize that by being more green they can save a lot of money.”
