Big UK companies form eco-IT group

Some jolly big names in the business world sent us some blurb  on how they met in London last week to talk about the environmental problems of IT.

Lloyds TSB, the John Lewis Partnership, Sony UK, the British Medical Association, E.ON UK, CQS and the biggest name of all – the University of Cumbria 😉 – came together in a bid to form a few plans around sustainability.

Sponsor Logicalis says the meet was led by environmental charity, the Global Action Plan.

The group will question political, industry, technology, and expert witnesses and have the power to commission independent research into specific areas of concern such as the Data Centre, Information Growth, and Legislation.

In the press release, Trewin Restorick (pictured), director of Global Action Plan and chair of the Environmental IT Leadership Team said:

“Currently, the advice available to IT Directors and CIOs comes from technology vendors. Although the intentions are good, the advice can be sometimes confusing and contradictory. This green IT team will provide a forum to review vendors’ advice and government policy, cutting through the techy and political jargon to give practical advice for creating a sustainable IT structure. The team will help peers put carbon reduction policies into practice and greatly reduce their environmental impact.”

“The remit and the direction of the Leadership Team will be shaped by the evolving challenges and concerns that CIOs face, as the IT department becomes the focus of carbon reduction strategies for many mid-to-large organisations. I am confident that through debate, research and discussion, we can have a powerful impact on the way IT is purchased and implemented in the future.”

Peter Ainsworth MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, has also leant his support: “I warmly welcome this project. The role of information technology in all our lives is set to continue growing rapidly, and it is essential to develop a better understanding of its impact on climate change and the use of natural resources, in order to minimise it.”

Tom Kelly, managing director, Logicalis UK said, “This is a seminal movement for the IT industry and an opportunity for us to influence the future direction of IT in the UK. Participating companies are some of the most forward thinking in the country when it comes to sustainability and environmental best practice, and I am sure the group will help push forward new areas of development, in both technology and operational procedures.”

Martin Kelmanson, head of ICTS division, British Medical Association, said, “Ten years ago nobody would have guessed at the significant role that IT has to play in shaping the legacy we leave future generations. I am extremely pleased to have the opportunity to be part of this group. It will be a practical forum to share best practice with industry peers, suppliers and users to make a positive impact on the way IT organisations across the UK tackle climate change. It is an exciting
step forward in our challenge to make our businesses green.”

The Group will meet every three months and will be supported by a dedicated programme manager from Global Action Plan. If you would like further information on the group and its activities please contact Global Action Plan by emailing amy.sims@globalactionplan.org.uk or telephoning +44 (0) 20 7025 3960.