Study: Exploring sustainable IT practices

Our study at a glance

While the social dimensions and governance aspects of sustainable IT often require explanation, our respondents essentially understand the environmental element. Indeed, the link between energy efficiency, emissions, and operational costs is a prominent topic in many companies. Three-quarters of our respondents confirmed that sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand for them. However, to achieve a shift towards ecologically sustainable IT, a more holistic approach that goes beyond mere efficiency considerations is needed. Ideally, this includes lifecycle management of the entire IT infrastructure. For example, companies can reduce their ecological footprint by considering sustainability criteria when purchasing new hardware and software. Equally important is integrating sustainable practices into technology management, including targeted maintenance and repair and the reuse of devices.

Digital accessibility: not just a ‘nice-to-have’

A key aspect of the social dimension of sustainable IT is digital accessibility. People with disabilities must have access to digital products and services just like everyone else. This is not only an ethical obligation but also a legal mandate: On 28 June 2025, the Federal Act on the Improvement of Accessibility (BFSG) will come into force. It aims to make digital services more accessible to people with disabilities. Companies subject to the BFSG will have to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, which require web content to be perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. 

Our research shows that awareness of these issues is only moderate: Fewer than half of respondents (44%) recognise the potential of sustainable IT to strengthen their company’s digital business ethics.

Evaluate technologies against ethical principles

Sustainable IT involves determining the social and environmental impacts and managing data and algorithms responsibly. Comprehensive governance is the foundation for this, ensuring IT systems adhere to ethical principles. Robust governance is vital when using AI, as biases in training data can amplify social inequalities and disadvantage certain groups. Therefore, independent audits of AI systems are essential in identifying and addressing potential discrimination early on.

Companies are open to more commitment

Over half (53%) of respondents said sustainable IT has played only a minor role in day-to-day operations so far. They often see sustainable IT as a strategic concept rather than a series of defined implementation steps. According to 72% of respondents, the main reasons are limited resources and high costs, with smaller companies especially reporting challenges. Nonetheless, our survey results suggest that most organisations are receptive to increasing their commitment to sustainable IT.

Education is the key to successful transformations: Few know how to implement sustainable IT holistically. This is why developing training, workshops, and internal awareness programmes is crucial. These initiatives help turn abstract ideas into concrete actions.

Focus on quick wins to get started

As regulations increase, the importance of sustainable IT within a legal framework is growing. Organisations must prepare for new legislation to ensure compliance at an early stage. That's why it’s essential to view transformation as an investment in the future. By integrating sustainable IT into their IT strategy, organisations can achieve long-term competitive advantages and cost savings.

Organisations can begin by assessing their IT infrastructure to identify quick and impactful improvements. Small pilot projects provide a good starting point and can serve as a structured model for implementing sustainable IT approaches more broadly.