The rapid advancement of technology has significantly increased electronic waste (e-waste) generation and energy consumption tied to digital infrastructure. In 2022, global e-waste reached approximately 62 million tons, with projections indicating a rise to 82 million tons by 2030. Alarmingly, only 22.3% of this e-waste was properly collected and recycled, leaving a large portion unaccounted for and posing serious environmental risks. Additionally, the growing adoption of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), has further exacerbated energy demands. For instance, the UK’s initiative to establish “AI growth zones” to enhance public computing power includes exploring small modular nuclear reactors, reflecting AI’s economic potential but raising concerns about balancing energy consumption with net-zero climate goals. These alarming trends underscore the urgent need for sustainable IT practices. Green IT and Sustainable Information Systems (SIS) emerge as critical solutions to address these environmental challenges. By focusing on energy-efficient operations, responsible e-waste management, and resource optimization, Green IT and SIS play a transformative role in building a sustainable digital future. This review examines their principles, innovative practices, and associated challenges, providing a comprehensive perspective on their potential to mitigate environmental impacts and drive sustainability in the digital age.

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Green IT and Sustainable Information Systems: Innovations, Challenges, and the Path to a Sustainable Digital Future

  • Aashna Sinha,
  • Shivam Kumar,
  • Bura Vijay Kumar,
  • Nagendar Yamsani,
  • Anita Gehlot

摘要

The rapid advancement of technology has significantly increased electronic waste (e-waste) generation and energy consumption tied to digital infrastructure. In 2022, global e-waste reached approximately 62 million tons, with projections indicating a rise to 82 million tons by 2030. Alarmingly, only 22.3% of this e-waste was properly collected and recycled, leaving a large portion unaccounted for and posing serious environmental risks. Additionally, the growing adoption of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), has further exacerbated energy demands. For instance, the UK’s initiative to establish “AI growth zones” to enhance public computing power includes exploring small modular nuclear reactors, reflecting AI’s economic potential but raising concerns about balancing energy consumption with net-zero climate goals. These alarming trends underscore the urgent need for sustainable IT practices. Green IT and Sustainable Information Systems (SIS) emerge as critical solutions to address these environmental challenges. By focusing on energy-efficient operations, responsible e-waste management, and resource optimization, Green IT and SIS play a transformative role in building a sustainable digital future. This review examines their principles, innovative practices, and associated challenges, providing a comprehensive perspective on their potential to mitigate environmental impacts and drive sustainability in the digital age.