A European Pilot Project to Measure the Net Impact of Green Digital Technologies

A newly awarded European Pilot Project will develop a common framework to measure the net impact of green digital technologies.

Which is the net impact of green digital technologies?

Digital technologies have the potential to unlock carbon emissions cuts as well as resource efficiency improvements. Nevertheless, their overconsumption and high electricity demand also cause a negative impact on the planet. Estimates show that ICT could consume 20% of global electricity by 2025 and generate 5.5% of CO2 emissions already by 2021!

“If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it”, said Peter Drucker, the father of management thinking. This is certainly true when it comes to evaluating the impact of digital technologies on the planet. To fully leverage the potential of green digital solutions and reach the European Green Deal objectives, it is key to understand their environmental benefits and net impacts.  This led to the launch of the European Parliament Pilot Project – European Green Digital Coalition.

 

European Pilot Project to measure the net impact of green digital technologiesA common assessment framework in Europe

On 24 January 2022, the European Commission awarded the European Parliament Pilot Project – European Green Digital Coalition. The objective is to develop common methods and tools to assess the positive contribution and the direct footprint of a digital solution. The Project also aims to support the recently established European Green Digital Coalition (EGDC) in reaching its objectives.

Leading associations came together to face the challenge:  the Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI), the European DIGITAL SME Alliance, DIGITALEUROPE, ETNO, and GSMA. Over a period of two years, this consortium will conduct a series of consultations with industry, SMEs, experts, and stakeholders. The outcomes will bring to a science-based approach to maximise the benefits of Europe’s green and digital transition.

Find more about the European Pilot Project and its partners here.

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