As Australia prepares to implement its new mandatory sustainability reporting framework in January 2025, IT teams nationwide are diligently preparing to meet these new standards.
This framework requires organisations to disclose their environmental impact, including Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. For IT teams, this involves providing comprehensive data on how their IT infrastructure contributes to these emissions categories.
APC by Schneider Electric offers a suite of solutions designed to support IT teams in effectively navigating these new reporting requirements.
Understanding Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions
Before exploring how APC can provide support, it is crucial to grasp the various types of emissions:
- Scope 1 Emissions: These are direct emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the organisation, such as on-site fuel combustion in data centres
- Scope 2 Emissions: These involve indirect emissions resulting from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling that the organisation consumes.
- Scope 3 Emissions: These encompass all other indirect emissions occurring throughout the value chain, including both upstream and downstream activities. This category includes emissions from the production and transportation of IT equipment, as well as the disposal of electronic waste.
How APC/Schneider Electric Can Help
IT infrastructure significantly contributes to an organisation's overall emissions. Scope 1 emissions might include the operation of on-site data centres and other IT equipment. Scope 2 emissions are predominantly associated with the electricity consumed by this infrastructure. Scope 3 emissions can be more complex to track, encompassing the entire supply chain, including the manufacturing and disposal of IT equipment, as well as business travel and other indirect activities.
For IT teams, understanding and managing these emissions is critical. They need to implement strategies that reduce energy consumption, optimise equipment usage, and ensure that the entire IT lifecycle is considered from procurement to disposal.
How APC/Schneider Electric Solutions Support Compliance
1. Comprehensive Data Collection and Management
APC's EcoStruxure IT platform offers reliable tools for the comprehensive monitoring and management of IT infrastructure. It empowers IT teams to track energy consumption, carbon emissions, and other essential metrics in real-time. This data is vital for precise reporting of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
2. Automated Reporting Solutions
EcoStruxure IT provides automated reporting features that simplify the compilation and submission of sustainability reports. These reports can be tailored to align with the specific requirements of Australia's new sustainability reporting framework, ensuring compliance while alleviating administrative burdens.
3. Energy Efficiency and Optimization
APC's solutions are thoughtfully crafted to prioritise energy efficiency. By enhancing power usage effectiveness (PUE) and integrating energy-efficient technologies, IT teams can substantially lower their Scope 2 emissions. Additionally, APC's UPS Lifecycle Services guarantee that IT equipment is maintained and replaced with an environmentally responsible approach.
4. Lifecycle Management and Recycling
Effective lifecycle management of IT equipment is crucial for reducing Scope 3 emissions. APC provides services for the responsible removal, recycling, and disposal of IT hardware, ensuring electronic waste is managed sustainably. This approach not only aids in emission reduction but also aligns with circular economy principles.
5. Consulting and Training
APC offers consulting services to assist organisations in crafting and executing robust sustainability strategies. Their Sustainability School delivers training programmes that empower IT teams with the essential knowledge and skills to achieve sustainability objectives and adhere to reporting requirements.
Conclusion
With the implementation of the new sustainability reporting framework, IT teams need to be ready to deliver detailed emissions data. APC by Schneider Electric provides a robust suite of tools and services designed to support IT teams in tackling these challenges directly. By utilising APC's solutions, IT teams can ensure precise reporting, enhance energy efficiency, and play a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable future.
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