Why is Sustainability Essential in the IT Sector?

Sustainability is the practice of meeting the present's needs without compromising the future generation's needs. In the IT sector, sustainability is majorly essential for many reasons.

IT Sector: Major Contributor of E-Waste

The IT sector is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. Data centers are the backbone of the IT industry. They consume large amounts of energy to power and cool the servers that store and process data. This results in the emission of greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. To combat this concern, heat is controlled through the use of air conditioning systems. This approach is not environment-friendly.

It’s a no-brainer to adopt sustainable practices. By adopting sustainable techniques, the IT sector can reduce its carbon footprint. This includes the usage of renewable energy sources and the implementation of energy-efficient technologies. This way, data centers can be crucial in transitioning to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly IT infrastructure.

Taking the Responsibility

Many IT companies are using advanced cooling technologies. These technologies are more energy-efficient and produce less waste. Some of them that are commonly used in data centers include:

1. Liquid cooling:

Servers are cooled using a liquid, typically water or a water-based solution. The liquid is circulated through the server and absorbs heat. This is then removed from the data center using a cooling tower or other systems. Liquid cooling is more efficient than air cooling. It can remove more heat from the server using a smaller amount of energy.

2. Immersion cooling:

Servers are placed in a tank of dielectric fluid. This cools the servers by removing heat through conduction. Immersion cooling is highly efficient. It allows for the direct transfer of heat from the server to the fluid without needing fans or other mechanical cooling systems.

3. Waste heat recovery:

The heat generated by servers is captured. This heat is used to heat other parts of the data center or to generate electricity. This can reduce the overall energy consumption of the data center. The heat that would otherwise be wasted is put to productive use.

These technologies can help IT companies reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions. All while lowering e-waste by extending the lifespan of servers.

Sustainable Practices in the Supply Chain of the IT Sector

Several sustainable practices in the supply chain of the IT sector are workable. They can help reduce the industry's environmental impact. Some of these practices include:

• Reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by using renewable energy sources. This includes solar or wind power to power manufacturing facilities and data centers.
• Using environmentally friendly materials in the production of IT equipment and devices. This includes recycled plastics and biodegradable packaging.
• Implementing efficient logistics and transportation practices. This includes using electric or hybrid vehicles to reduce emissions from transportation.
• Recycling and reusing old IT equipment, such as refurbished hardware, instead of disposing of them in landfills.
• Promoting digital technologies, such as cloud computing and remote work. This will reduce the need for physical IT equipment and the industry's carbon footprint.

Utilizing Refurbished Products is an Excellent Start

Refurbished hardware, servers, and other IT equipment can reduce e-waste. Also, it can extend the lifespan of these products in several ways.

Refurbishing these products allows them to be used for more extended periods. Therefore, reducing the need for new resources to be used to produce new IT equipment. This can help to conserve natural resources and reduce the environmental impact.

Refurbished IT equipment is often more affordable than new equipment. This can help to make these products more accessible to small businesses. This way, people are more likely to retain old equipment if they can upgrade to newer, more efficient models.

Using refurbished hardware also reduces the amount of e-waste that ends up in landfills. Disposed old IT equipment can release hazardous materials into the environment. It can be lead and mercury. Using refurbished hardware can reduce the associated environmental impact.

Buying Thoroughly Tested Refurbished Products by CXtec

CXtec is the North America's leading seller of refurbished IT equipment. Our products function efficiently and come with a lifetime warranty. When you buy refurbished IT equipment from CXtec, you get up to 90% off the retail price. Besides selling refurbished IT equipment, CXtec offers a wide range of other services. From excellent aftermarket services to data decommissioning, we help you set up your IT infrastructure.

Call our experts to learn more about our offerings.