How everyday technology choices drive true workplace sustainability
A sponsored feature argues that routine IT purchasing and equipment management decisions can materially affect whether organisations meet their sustainability goals. It says technology leaders should work with other departments to weigh environmental impact alongside cost, security and usability.
A Barco ClickShare survey of 500 US technology leaders found that 96 per cent saw their sustainability work as making a significant, positive contribution to strategy, while 98 per cent said their departments should lead on it. More than four in five said they would reject a job at an employer without a strong sustainability record, and only 6 per cent of IT departments were sole decision-makers on technology investments. The feature recommends buying durable, interoperable equipment, extending product life and checking suppliers’ sustainability and energy-efficiency certifications.
In short
- Everyday IT decisions can shape workplace sustainability.
- Only 6% of IT teams decide on tech purchases alone.
- Durability and recognised certifications matter when buying equipment.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Organisations’ routine technology choices can add up to meaningful environmental impacts, so IT teams should consider energy use, durability and repairability alongside cost, security and usability. Working across departments and choosing interoperable equipment that lasts longer may reduce waste and help align purchasing with sustainability goals.
The case against
Sustainability is a legitimate consideration, but technology decisions also have to meet operational needs, including security, reliability, accessibility and budget constraints. Survey responses show leaders’ views, not that a particular purchasing approach will deliver measurable environmental gains; organisations may reasonably require stronger evidence and weigh trade-offs case by case.
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