Sustainable IT Practices for a Greener Business: Celebrating World Environment Day

Each year on June 5, businesses and individuals around the world recognize World Environment Day, an important reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the planet. For many companies, going green starts with office policies, product packaging, or energy usage—but IT infrastructure is often overlooked. At TotalBC, we believe that sustainable IT practices can make a powerful impact, reducing costs, lowering carbon footprints, and supporting a healthier planet.

In honor of World Environment Day, we're spotlighting how your business can go green with smart, eco-conscious technology strategies.

Why Sustainable IT Matters

Modern businesses depend on technology—from servers and VoIP systems to access control and surveillance cameras. However, the IT industry is also responsible for approximately 2--3% of global CO emissions. While that number may seem small, it's on par with the aviation industry. As technology use grows, so does the environmental impact.

Fortunately, sustainable IT isn't just good for the environment—it's good for business. Green IT practices can:

• Reduce energy consumption
• Lower utility and operational costs
• Improve your brand's reputation
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations

Let's break down some of the best ways to embrace sustainable IT in your workplace.

1. Invest in Energy-Efficient Equipment

Start with the backbone of your IT operations: your hardware.

• Choose Energy Star-rated devices, such as computers, monitors, and printers.
• Upgrade to servers and networking equipment that use less power, particularly during low-demand periods.
• Implement power management settings on all workstations to automatically enter sleep or hibernation mode when inactive.

Tip: Encourage employees to power down devices completely at the end of the day. Even standby mode can consume significant energy across a large office.

2. Reduce and Recycle E-Waste Responsibly

Old computers, monitors, phones, and peripherals often end up in landfills, contributing to toxic waste. Instead:

• Set up an e-waste recycling program in partnership with certified recyclers.
• Extend hardware lifespan through refurbishment and repairs rather than replacements.
• Donate outdated but functional equipment to local schools, nonprofits, or community centers.

At TotalBC, we can help businesses manage their hardware lifecycles and responsibly dispose of outdated devices.

3. Virtualize and Consolidate Servers

Running multiple servers for various functions? Consider virtualization.

• Server virtualization allows multiple applications and operating systems to run on a single physical machine.
• This reduces the number of physical servers needed, cutting down on energy usage, cooling requirements, and maintenance costs.

Businesses can also opt for cloud-based solutions, which eliminate the need for on-site infrastructure altogether. Cloud providers often use highly efficient, centralized data centers that are designed for energy optimization.

4. Green Your Data Centers

If your business runs its own data center or server room, optimizing its energy use is key.

• Use energy-efficient cooling systems, such as hot aisle/cold aisle containment or liquid cooling.
• Install smart sensors to monitor temperature and humidity.
• Upgrade to solid-state drives (SSDs) which consume less energy and offer faster performance.

For many small and mid-sized businesses, partnering with a managed IT provider like TotalBC can help reduce the burden of managing high-consumption infrastructure internally.

5. Use Sustainable Procurement Practices

Make environmentally responsible choices when purchasing IT equipment.

• Choose manufacturers with clear sustainability and recycling policies.
• Look for hardware made from recycled or low-impact materials.
• Avoid overbuying—get what your business truly needs, and plan for scalable upgrades instead of one-time bulk purchases.

6. Embrace Remote Work and Digital Workflows

Remote work doesn't just benefit employees—it can dramatically cut down on your business's environmental footprint.

• Reduce daily commuting, lowering emissions.
• Decrease the need for large office spaces and energy consumption.
• Transition to paperless processes using digital signatures, cloud storage, and VoIP communication platforms like those offered by TotalBC.

7. Educate Your Team on Green IT Habits

Technology is only part of the solution. People matter too.

• Provide training on eco-friendly tech habits, such as reducing printing, shutting down devices, and managing files in the cloud.
• Celebrate milestones—like reduced power usage or successful recycling drives—to create a culture of environmental responsibility.

Future-Proof Your Business with Green IT

Technology doesn't have to come at the expense of the environment. By making intentional, sustainable IT choices, your business can reduce its impact, lower costs, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to corporate social responsibility.

At TotalBC, we help businesses across the Carolinas implement smart, efficient, and sustainable technology solutions. Whether you're looking to optimize your infrastructure, recycle responsibly, or modernize your communications, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Need help going green with your IT setup?

Contact TotalBC today at 866-673-8682 or visit www.totalbc.com to learn how our managed IT services, VoIP systems, and secure cloud solutions can support your sustainability goals.