Introduction

The Challenge

As a green tech company under strict ESG and CSRD regulations, the client was required to report IT-related emissions—a task often overlooked in the industry. The lack of detailed insights into IT emissions hindered their ability to report and optimize effectively. They needed a strategy that not only complied with regulations but also demonstrated a clear path toward reduced emissions over time.

The Solution

The re:cinq SaaS tool was implemented using a sensor deployed within the client’s infrastructure to monitor and report emissions in real-time across various metrics such as service, cloud instance, VM, or server. This advanced system not only tracks detailed emission data but also aggregates this information into an annual consolidated CO2 emissions report. Key features of the re:cinq tool include:

• Detailed Breakdown: Provides a granular view of emissions data per service, cloud instance, VM, or server, enabling precise monitoring and management.
• Actionable Recommendations: The tool includes a recommendation engine that suggests specific changes to reduce emissions, optimizing cloud resource use and energy efficiency.
• Compliance Reporting: Generates reports that fulfill compliance requirements, helping the client adhere to environmental regulations effortlessly.
  

These capabilities ensure that the client can effectively manage their environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Implementation Process

• Onboarding: Installation of a sensor on the client’s infrastructure to begin data collection.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Continuous monitoring and data collection facilitated through the cloud platform, enabling the generation of recommendations, graphs, and reports.
• Professional Services: Provided support in implementing recommendations and optimizing the infrastructure based on the collected data.

Results Achieved

• CO2 Emissions Reduction: Achieved a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions through efficient changes in cloud management.
• Cost Savings: Realized a 30% reduction in operational costs by optimizing cloud infrastructure and processes.
• Regulatory Compliance: The annual report supported compliance with strict environmental and sustainability regulations.
• Strategic Decision-Making: Facilitated better strategic planning with detailed emissions reporting and insights.
• Quantitative Improvements: Noted significant decreases in unnecessary energy consumption and enhanced cloud resource utilization.
• Environmental and Economic Efficiency: Demonstrated that environmental responsibility can align with economic efficiency in corporate strategies.

Lessons Learned

• Awareness: The importance of raising awareness about IT emissions was a key takeaway, as this area is often neglected in corporate sustainability strategies.
• Software Refactoring: Plans to refactor the software to enhance its efficiency and adaptability.
• Long-Term Strategy: The need for a long-term strategy to continuously monitor and reduce emissions as part of an ongoing commitment to sustainability.