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IT Recruitment September 2009
IT News |
09/09/2009
'Combating climate change' and 'going green' are phrases that everyone hears on a regular basis at the moment, however employees within the IT sector may be set to hear them more often than most as experts suggest those with computing know-how could hold the key to helping businesses implement environmentally-friendly measures.
There is increasing pressure on firms to opt for low-carbon technologies and many commentators have suggested that a strong IT department is vital in making such schemes run smoothly ? meaning the move to a green economy could have significant implications for IT recruitment.
How can IT departments help firms go green?
According to Warren Wilson, a senior analyst with Ovum, people in IT jobs can help address environmental issues in three main ways, which he outlined in his latest Straight Talk Monthly newsletter. He states that the role which comes up for discussion most often is making computing much more energy efficient, however there are other opportunities for ICT departments to play a significant part in helping companies go greener.
For example he suggested that substituting low-carbon technologies, such as video conferencing, for higher-carbon functions, like taking a flight to a meeting, is dependent on having a strong IT team in place.
However, Mr Wilson argues that the most critical role for IT workers will be monitoring, measuring, analysing and minimising the impact of manufacturing, buildings, vehicle fleets and other operations that account for a significant proportion of firms' carbon emissions.
And even if firms are not motivated by green factors, the potential cost savings associated with being energy-efficient are sure to encourage even the most sceptical companies to embrace some eco-friendly initiatives.
"It's important to take a broad view of both the problem and the potential solutions," said Mr Wilson. "Technologies developed to improve business operations or even software development can pay dividends in carbon reduction, and these gains are no less real than if motivated solely by environmental concerns."
Are firms focusing on green issues?
Recent research by NetRegs.co.uk highlighted that many businesses are being slow to realise the benefits going green can have for their bottom line, with only half of those questioned actively trying to boost their green credentials.
This is despite companies which are making the effort reporting reduced operating costs, a more motivated workforce and better relationships with customers as benefits of employing environmental policies.
However, with the government, environmental groups and business organisations regularly piping up about the need for businesses to lower their carbon footprints, it can only be a matter of time before firms wake up to the benefits going green can bring, and start seeking IT staff who can help implement such strategies.
Posted by Jon Aspinell
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