Digital Sustainability
What is Digital Sustainability?
As our world becomes increasingly digital, the concept of digital sustainability is emerging as a vital counterpart to environmental sustainability. Digital sustainability refers to the responsible and mindful use of technology, aiming to minimise the environmental impact of digital services, while ensuring that technology continues to be accessible, ethical, and equitable for all. It focuses on balancing the growth of digital infrastructure with the preservation of the planet, supporting both current and future generations by creating a sustainable digital ecosystem. Just as we strive to reduce our carbon footprint in daily life, digital sustainability encourages us to reconsider the long-term impact of the digital services we use, from the energy consumption of data centres to the lifecycle of electronic devices.
Connecting Digital Sustainability to Our Strategy
At the University of Westminster, digital sustainability is a key component of our broader commitment to sustainability and wellbeing. Our “Being Westminster 2022-2029” strategy emphasises wellbeing, inclusion, and sustainable development. By integrating digital sustainability into our operations, we aim to create a supportive digital environment that enhances personal health and mental wellbeing while protecting the planet through sustainable practices.
The University of Westminster is also committed to embedding the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in our teaching, research, and operations. These goals provide a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Since adopting the SDGs in 2019, we have focused on inclusion, well-being, and environmental sustainability, and we continue to challenge our community to consider the SDGs holistically.
Connecting Digital Sustainability to Our Strategy
At the University of Westminster, digital sustainability is a key component of our broader commitment to sustainability and wellbeing. Our “Being Westminster 2022-2029” strategy emphasises wellbeing, inclusion, and sustainable development. By integrating digital sustainability into our operations, we aim to create a supportive digital environment that enhances personal health and mental wellbeing while protecting the planet through sustainable practices.
The University of Westminster is also committed to embedding the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in our teaching, research, and operations. These goals provide a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Since adopting the SDGs in 2019, we have focused on inclusion, well-being, and environmental sustainability, and we continue to challenge our community to consider the SDGs holistically.
Top 5 Tips to Foster Digital Sustainability
1. Minimise Digital Waste: opt for fewer, more durable devices and aim to use them for longer, rather than upgrading to the latest phone, laptop, or tablet every year. When your devices or electronics reach the end of their life, make sure to recycle them properly or donate them for reuse, instead of letting them end up in landfill. This helps reduce waste and supports a more sustainable approach to technology.
2. Cultivate Energy-Efficient Habits: to reduce energy consumption, ensure that computers, phones, and tablets are set to energy-saving settings, such as dimming the screen, using sleep mode, and turning off devices when not in use. Additionally, whenever possible, opt for cloud services that operate on renewable energy, and encourage the university to select sustainable hosting providers for its websites and digital infrastructure. This can significantly lower the carbon footprint associated with digital activities while promoting environmentally responsible practices across campus.
3. Practice Efficient Data Management: Reducing digital clutter can lower energy consumption and improve efficiency. Regularly delete old files, emails, and apps that are no longer needed, and avoid unnecessary data storage in the cloud. By keeping digital storage minimal and organised, you help reduce the energy required to maintain large data centres and minimise the environmental impact of excess data storage.
4. Share and Inspire Sustainable Practices: foster an open dialogue about digital sustainability by sharing ideas and tips with colleagues and students. Encourage each other to explore eco-friendly habits and practices, creating a supportive community of mindful tech users. Small changes in how we approach technology, when shared, can lead to broader positive shifts in digital habits across campus.
Ready to take action?
Let’s make Westminster a leader in both digital innovation and sustainability. Start by looking at your digital habits today. Use these tips and get involved in initiatives at the University of Westminster to make digital sustainability a key part of your academic and professional journey. Together, we can create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future.