Getting Serious About Sustainable IT: Metrics, Tools, and Solutions

Published:
Briefs, Case Studies, Papers, Reports
Author(s) and Contributors:
Author(s): Nancye Jenkins David Wilson Tom Franke
Source(s) and Collection(s):
Sources(s): EDUCAUSE Research Collection(s): Research Bulletins
ParentTopics:
Metrics Technology Selection

Abstract

This ECAR This research bulletin provides a review of current tools and metrics for assessing IT sustainability and green initiatives. It evaluates current measurement tools and proposes conceptual models of tools that are needed. It is intended to pave the way for institutional discussions about topics such as:

  • What is the life cycle use and carbon impact of various types of computing hardware?
  • Of the many suggestions for reducing environmental impact, how can we determine which are most effective? In other words, what is the ROI, in terms of reduced impact, of our technology choices?
  • What information is currently available to guide technology leaders, and how specific and useful is it?
  • What additional information or tools will be needed for our community to make responsible and effective decisions to promote “sustainability” in computing?

Citation for this work: Franke, Thomas L., Nancye Jenkins, and David Harper Wilson. “Getting Serious About Sustainable IT: Metrics, Tools, and Solutions” (Research Bulletin, Issue 14). Boulder, CO: EDUCAUSE Center for Analysis and Research, 2009, available from http://www.educause.edu/ecar.

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