With the exponential rise of data usage, coupled with the rising tide of environmentalism that will see governments and consumers increasingly hold the industry to account, it is imperative that the data center industry as a whole is investing time and resources into developing energy efficient and sustainable solutions to data center capacity and the global climate emergency. But, can we decarbonise digital infrastructure in time to make an impact? Will the industry ultimately help to deliver or derail from the 2030 net-zero target?

A good way to approach such a complex question is to look at the challenge through the lens of each market segment. We’ve invited major influencers from the world of telecoms, colocation, hyperscale, energy, government, research and technology innovation to share their roadmaps for climate change action, and if necessary to defend their positions in the face of increasing public scrutiny. How viable and impactful are potential initiatives including carbon taxation and eco-labelling? What does the concept of 100% renewable really mean? Why is it so difficult to put a number on energy consumption? And how can data centers give back to the environment and communities they operate in?