With the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) committed to achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2050, sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a business driver in much the same way as strategy and business continuity plans are. According to Accenture, 94% of top CEOs cite sustainability as important or very important to the future success of their business.
Greener business
Although the solution to this global problem is complex, reducing waste and taking action to be a more ‘greener business’ can take many forms from reusing before recycling, switching off lights and computers, going paperless, saving water, cutting down on travel, as well as going digital through utilisation of the latest technical innovations. As new technologies develop, these technologies tend to always support improving energy efficiency and reducing waste, empowering businesses on their path to net zero.
Technology is one of the great ways businesses can contribute to environmental sustainability. Reviewing a company’s sustainability plan and how businesses are utilising tech to achieve this is paramount. Technology can also improve efficiency and processes, which is therefore more likely deliver an energy friendly workplace.
Video and audio calls
The transportation sector generates the largest share of greenhouse gas emissions. Two key areas which can reduce carbon emissions for businesses from transportation, includes the reduction of both business travel, as well as employee commuting. This also cuts the amount of office space businesses require, which in turn can cut down on energy usage.
Video and audio calling supports the need for travel, as well as improving communication, efficiency, productivity, building relationships and scheduling. Microsoft Teams is a great platform for this.
Cloud technology
Many businesses are migrating to cloud solutions to not only save costs, gain flexibility and scalability, but also achieve environmental benefits. Cloud technology can reduce your carbon footprint through utilising shared data centres and removing physical hardware (which as it ages, tends to consume more energy), as well as reducing waste from not having to replace the equipment so frequently.
Cloud technology, for example Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Azure enable businesses to gain quick and simple access to applications and data, from anywhere at any time. Utilising cloud technology delivers multiple benefits from reduced paper usage, lower printing costs, improved collaboration, advanced security, and data loss protection.
Network monitoring and infrastructure
Monitoring network devices and servers to ensure that they are running at peak performance and consuming minimal resources can help businesses operate more efficiently and reduce energy consumption. This is also true when optimising the technology’s infrastructure, ensuring you are getting the most out of it and only upgrading when necessary, reducing waste.
Energy reporting
Utilising smart technology to report and monitor your business’ energy consumption is another great way to reduce your carbon emissions. Everyday habits such as switching off TVs, printers, monitors, and computers, that aren’t being used, as well as purchasing energy efficient equipment will also help to reduce a business’ carbon footprint.
Sustainable suppliers
Auditing your supply chain from sourcing of materials through to end use and understanding your suppliers’ environmental impact and sustainability plans, can support your business’ carbon footprint. This impact can be both directly through the products you purchase, as well as indirectly through your suppliers’ processes and procedures to deliver the end product to you.
Often, reducing your carbon emission not only helps protect the environment, but can improve your bottom line through:
- reduced operating costs
- increased efficiency
- raising your brand profile
- achieving a competitive advantage
- future proofing your business
What do Matrix IT do to help the environment?
At Matrix we are committed to keeping our business sustainable.
“Sustainability is important to us and to our children, so they can inherit a world that’s worth living in. In our sector we are quick to replace with the next generation of newer, faster technology. Where possible we try to get the most out of our existing infrastructure and only upgrade when there is a business need. We also recycle hardware which is disposed of ethically. Below is a list of what Matrix IT is doing to help the environment” Nic Cronin, Managing Director.
- We’re very selective with the suppliers we work with because we know our customers rely on us as their trusted technology advisor. We recently partnered with MPP Digital who provide print services to our customers. They work very closely with OneTribe and plant a tree for every 8333 pages their customers print.
- In recent years we have also made the decision to change our company cars from petrol to hybrid EcoBoost vehicles. All drivers now release less CO (Carbon Monoxide) emissions when travelling to site to fix customer issues.
- We have a no paper policy in the office at Matrix. We try our hardest to ensure everything is digital, from brochures to important updates, including our Christmas e-cards.
- We recycle all old devices and smartphones. If we can’t fix them or use them for testing, we give them all to Jamies Computers, a local registered charity.
How Matrix can help you
If you’re interested in discussing how Matrix can support your business’ sustainability plan, to reduce energy and improve efficiency,
contact us via email or call on 01329 888444.
