Data centres serve as the well of all digital information, from streaming your favourite shows to hosting important business processes. However, as our reliance on data only grows, so does the environmental cost. Below we look at the environmental impact of data centres, the growing need for greener operations, and what businesses can do to build a more sustainable future with the help of Restore Technology.
Are data centres bad for the environment?
It’s a fair question, and at face value, the numbers are sobering. Globally, data centres consume roughly 1-1.5% of the world’s electricity. That’s a significant amount of energy powering servers 24/7, and that’s before factoring in the air conditioning required to keep them cool.
The impact of cloud data centres on the environment is for the most part, twofold. On the one hand, large-scale operations can be more efficient than in-house setups. On the other hand, they still draw enormous amounts of energy and resources, which particularly complicates things if those resources aren’t renewable.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and edge computing are game-changers, but they’re also energy-hungry. AI alone requires a massive amount of power, while edge computing relies on the build-out of smaller, decentralised data centres that often lack the efficiency of larger ones.
Why sustainable data centres matter
There may have been a time when sustainability was just about ticking all the regulatory boxes, but now the benefits are well-documented and widely recognised. Yes, compliance is important, and regulations like the EU’s Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact and ISO standards are pushing the industry in the right direction. But sustainability also just makes good business sense:
Lower operating costs: Efficient cooling and renewable energy use can save serious money.
Stronger brand reputation: Clients and investors prefer businesses that care about their environmental impact.
Future resilience: Getting ahead of evolving environmental policies protects against fines and restrictions.
Contribution to ESG goals: Sustainability is central to any meaningful environmental, social, and governance strategy.
At Restore Technology, we’ve embedded these principles into our operations. Our ESG journey isn’t just a roadmap, it’s a commitment to real, measurable progress.
Sustainability beyond the basics
When most people think about data centre sustainability, their minds jump to energy efficiency or renewable power. But there are often overlooked areas that can have just as big an impact, such as procedures for end-of-life hardware.
Refurbishing and reusing IT equipment, as well as responsibly disposing of storage devices and networking equipment is a chance to reduce e-waste, recover value, and support a circular economy. Services like secure data destruction (through shredding or degaussing), certified sanitisation, and IT asset disposition (ITAD) make it possible to avoid landfill, enable reuse, and retain control over sensitive data.
This is where data centre sustainability can, and should, go further. Asset recovery and end-of-life services aren’t just a back-office function. They’re a key part of rethinking how we manage infrastructure. Restore Technology’s Carbon Reduction Plan outlines how these practices feed into a bigger, measurable sustainability strategy.
How is data centre sustainability monitored?
To create the most sustainable data centre, operators need to understand how their facility is performing, and that starts with data centre environment monitoring. Metrics to watch include:
- Power usage effectiveness (PUE)
- Carbon emissions
- Water consumption (WUE)
- Cooling system efficiency
Good monitoring leads to better decisions and more transparent and insightful reporting. That’s why Restore Technology provides detailed, auditable reports for all our services, especially during data centre relocations, where full traceability is absolutely crucial.
How can companies make their data centres more sustainable?
Reduce physical infrastructure by combining workloads and embracing virtualisation. Fewer machines mean less power and cooling needed.
Renewables are becoming more accessible, many operators now partner with green energy suppliers or install their own solar or wind solutions.
Modern cooling technology is much more efficient. Techniques like hot and cold aisle containment, liquid cooling, and free-air systems can significantly reduce energy use.
The impact of cloud data centres on the environment is for the most part, twofold. On the one hand, large-scale operations can be more efficient than in-house setups. On the other hand, they still draw enormous amounts of energy and resources, which particularly complicates things if those resources aren’t renewable.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and edge computing are game-changers, but they’re also energy-hungry. AI alone requires a massive amount of power, while edge computing relies on the build-out of smaller, decentralised data centres that often lack the efficiency of larger ones.
Before buying new hardware, ask: can we refurbish what we already have? Restore Technology offers asset recovery services that extend the life of IT equipment, saving money and reducing waste.
When it’s time to decommission, responsible disposal is a must. Our secure data destruction and recycling services ensure that:
- Data is completely and verifiably destroyed (via shredding or degaussing)
- Reusable components are salvaged
- Hazardous waste is kept out of landfills
- All with full documentation, so nothing gets lost in the process.
Sustainability is a moving target. Continuous data centre environment monitoring helps you spot inefficiencies and take action early. It’s about building a culture of awareness and improvement.
At Restore Technology, we understand that data centre operators are navigating rising costs, increasing demands for transparency and tightening regulations. That’s why our services are designed to help businesses achieve their sustainability goals without compromising on performance or security.
Whether you’re relocating infrastructure, retiring equipment, or planning your next data strategy, we provide:
- Certified secure data destruction
- Sustainable asset recovery and refurbishment
- Comprehensive audit trails and documentation
- Carbon-conscious data centre relocation
With every service, we aim to support sustainable data centre practices that align with your operational, regulatory, and environmental priorities.
Byte-sized emissions, big-time impact
The shift towards data centre sustainability isn’t just a trend, it’s a necessity. The industry must continue evolving to meet climate goals, reduce resource usage, and support a more circular economy.
By working with partners like Restore Technology, organisations can make that transition smoother, smarter, and more secure. With the right tools, services, and mindset, any business can contribute to building a greener digital future.To learn how we can support your journey towards a more sustainable data infrastructure, reach out to Restore Technology today.