Posted on Mon, Nov 30, 2009
Dr. David Suzuki is an award-winning Scientist, Broadcaster, and global thought leader in sustainable Ecology. He's also the most recognizable Canadian face on the fight against climate change. We'll give the American ‘face' to Al Gore.
When asked about his thoughts on how the IT sector is doing to reduce their environmental impact on the planet, Dr. Suzuki begins by stating ‘I'm not an expert in this area...I have no idea'. However, for the next five minutes, he provides a very interesting and thought-provoking view on the subject. Suzuki discusses the ‘built-in obsolescence of technology' and the need for companies and industries to embrace progress. Here is Dr. Suzuki's interview with CDN / ITBusiness Canada.
Looking past the politics, I agree with Suzuki's view that we must improve the life cycle management of IT products. Think PCs, Servers, Printers/Copiers. One of his thoughts is to build an environmental cost (carbon tax?) into the price of a new device. OK, possibly a bit radical...but many people agree something should be done to openly discuss the real impact technology is having on the environment. Further, to move to a tax would take strong government support as I don't see or hear HP, Cisco, Samsung, Xerox, or Dell suggesting this ‘tax' be added to the cost of their hardware. Although, like Suzuki says about the auto industry, if a manufacturer took this progressive position, they could be seen as the undisputed environmental leader in the industry...and likely have a resulting business benefit for their company.
In terms of assessing the ‘real' costs associated with upgrading technology, there are some environmental factors that should be included...some positive & some having a negative impact to the planet. On the plus side, IT products are becoming more energy efficient. Anything that reduces heat & electricity consumption is a net positive for the environment. On the other side, there are significant environmental costs associated with the manufacturing of new products. The list extends beyond the manufacturing process to include chlorine packaging, shipping (most frequently from Asia), disposal/recycling of the old hardware, disposal/recycling of the packaging, water & air pollution, etc. The current reality is the impact on the environment is almost always greater (worse) to purchase a new machine then it is to maintain and better support the current deployed asset.
If companies adopt Suzuki's recommendations, they will shift to refreshing technology on an ‘as needed' basis. An analysis including both technology and the environment will allow companies to make decisions with full disclosure. Under this model, companies would maximize the useful life of all products, refreshing for technology when required. Assuming the deployment of a strong Managed Services offering, the net result for the customer should be:
- Maximized user productivity
- Reduced capital expenditures on hardware
- Latest technology capabilities where required
- Appropriate compensation for the environment
Climate change may turn out to be one of the most important issues of the next 100 years and Dr. Suzuki believes we have a responsibility to build our economy in a sustainable fashion that includes technological progress in balance with promoting global conservation. After listening to Dr. David Suzuki speak, you will come away with a better understanding about how he believes a healthy business can exist within a healthy planet.