Digital and AI

DCG and Digital Sustainability

DCG has proactively aligned hardware and practices with sustainability standards, emphasising device compliance and longevity for responsible life cycle management. Standardising hardware types and adopting eco-friendly configurations like Fujitsu power supply connectors and modern copiers exemplify their commitment to minimizing environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.

Through partnerships with environmentally responsible suppliers such as CSI Leasing, and collaborations with organisations like EnviroElectronics and Stone for responsible Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) disposal, DCG reduces electronic waste, adhering to circular economy principles of re-use, refurbish, and recycle.

In addition to hardware sustainability, DCG integrates eco-conscious practices into daily operations. Implementing tools like PaperCut Grows to manage paper consumption and adopting Ecosia as the default browser, they showcase a dedication to reducing environmental footprint across all levels.

Jisc recently featured us in the members’ highlights of their monthly newsletter!

https://infrastructure.jiscinvolve.org/wp/2024/04/24/jisc-digital-sustainability-newsletter-3/

AI and Sustainability

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital tools are becoming increasingly embedded in everyday life, from education and business operations to research and public services. Alongside their growing use, there has been increased discussion about their environmental impact.

How AI Can Support Sustainability

AI has the potential to be a powerful tool in advancing sustainability goals. One of its key strengths lies in its ability to analyse large volumes of data quickly and accurately, allowing organisations and researchers to make more informed decisions. In areas such as energy management, AI can be used to optimise energy consumption, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. It also supports more sustainable practices in sectors including transportation and agriculture by automating processes, forecasting demand, and identifying inefficiencies.

In environmental protection and climate science, AI plays an important role in detecting patterns within complex datasets, helping researchers to model future risks, track environmental change, and develop more effective conservation strategies. Used responsibly, AI can therefore support innovation while contributing to more efficient and sustainable systems.

Environmental Challenges of AI

AI also presents significant environmental challenges. AI systems, particularly large-scale models, require substantial computing power. These systems are typically housed in data centres, which consume large amounts of energy and resources. In addition to electricity, data centres require significant volumes of water for cooling, raising concerns about resource use, especially in regions where access to clean water is already limited.

Globally, the water demands of AI-related infrastructure are projected to increase rapidly and may soon reach levels equivalent to several times the annual water consumption of countries with millions of residents.

The growth of AI also drives demand for new digital devices and infrastructure. Manufacturing this technology requires raw materials, many of which are finite and environmentally costly to extract. At the end of their life, electronic devices are difficult to recycle due to their complex components and the presence of hazardous materials, contributing to the growing challenge of electronic waste.

AI in Practice: Ethical Considerations

The ethical implications of AI use have also become more visible in real-world scenarios. During the Los Angeles wildfires in January 2025, AI-powered drones were reportedly used to support firefighting efforts. While demonstrating the potential of AI to assist in emergency response, the situation also raised concerns. Water shortages that affected firefighting capabilities were partly linked to demand from local AI data centres, prompting wider debate about resource prioritisation during environmental crises and the broader ethical responsibilities associated with AI deployment.

Steps Towards More Responsible AI Use

In response to these challenges, many technology companies are committing to reducing the environmental footprint of digital infrastructure. Several major organisations are investing heavily in renewable energy. In addition, more than 190 countries have adopted non-binding international recommendations on the ethical use of AI, which include considerations of environmental sustainability.

Using AI More Sustainably

While large-scale infrastructure decisions sit primarily with technology providers and policymakers, individuals and organisations can still play a role in reducing the environmental impact of digital tools.

Simple actions include using AI consciously by choosing it only when it adds clear value. Where a standard search engine or existing resource can provide the information needed, this may be a more energy-efficient option.

Extending the life of digital devices to reduce demand for new manufacturing. Regularly deleting unnecessary files and maintaining devices can improve performance, efficiency, and longevity.

AI will continue to play an important role in education, innovation, and sustainability. Understanding its environmental impact allows organisations and individuals to use these tools more thoughtfully, ensuring that the benefits of AI are balanced with a commitment to environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability.