实现净零排放：利用可持续设备降低成本和碳排放2024

Achieving Net Zero: Reducing Costs and Carbon with Sustainable Devices

Overview

With 92% of organizations aiming to achieve net zero targets by 2040, there is increasing pressure from governments, regulators, and customers to accelerate emission reduction plans. Key initial targets include data centers, vehicle fleets, and office spaces, which represent significant portions of corporate carbon footprints. However, one often-overlooked contributor is end-user devices and employee behavior.

The Importance of Devices

Most employees are equipped with company devices, whether laptops or ruggedized tablets. These devices collectively have a substantial impact on emissions due to their lifecycle—from manufacturing to decommissioning. The majority (85%) of emissions are generated during manufacture and shipping, even after years of usage. Organizations must consider the upstream Scope 3 emissions, which are crucial for achieving net zero commitments.

Role of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)

OEMs play a critical role in device sustainability strategies. Many organizations fail to account for the significant emissions generated during manufacturing and shipping. Only 25% of organizations factor in upstream Scope 3 emissions, despite their dominant share of disclosed emissions. Engaging with suppliers to understand and mitigate these impacts is essential. Organizations can start by discussing sustainability practices and transparently evaluating supplier performance.

Procurement and Device Management

Proper procurement and ongoing management are key to minimizing carbon impacts. Organizations should aim for sustainable designs and production practices. Working with IT teams to establish persona mapping can help match devices to specific roles, reducing unnecessary costs and energy consumption. Capgemini's two-year project to replace nearly 30,000 desktops with laptops resulted in an estimated annual savings of 2,400 tons of carbon emissions.

Employee Engagement

Employee behavior significantly influences device emissions. Clear communication and continuous engagement are vital. Providing personalized carbon footprint reports and energy management software can empower employees to make sustainable choices. Gamification techniques, such as personal sustainability scores and leaderboards, can foster positive competition and encourage sustainable behaviors. Offering rewards and recognizing sustainability champions can further motivate employees.

Circular Economy

Encouraging the retention of devices beyond their typical lifespan can significantly reduce the costs and carbon associated with new purchases. Promoting a circular economy approach helps extend the useful life of devices, thereby delaying the need for replacements.

By focusing on these areas, organizations can effectively reduce their carbon footprint and achieve their net zero targets.