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November 2021 was marked by the promulgation of the to reduce the environmental footprint of digital technology in France (REEN). Although the text is primarily aimed at manufacturers of digital terminals, it should be an opportunity for any company to reflect on its digital carbon footprint.
REEN Act: the manufacture and sale of digital terminals mainly targeted
With the aim of limiting the renewal of terminals, the law includes a number of provisions aimed at the manufacture and sale of digital terminals (smartphones, tablets, computers, etc.).
By January1, 2028 at the latest, the text provides for the introduction of binding recycling, reuse and repair targets for certain digital goods , as well asnational collection operations for digital equipment led by producers or their eco-organizations and accompanied by a return premium.
A general eco-design reference framework for digital services setting out sustainable design criteria will also be introduced from January1, 2024.
Finally, the text makes it compulsory for certain electronic communications operators to publish key indicators on their policies for reducing their environmental footprint. A decree will specify the operators subject to this obligation, as well as its content and procedures.
How can a company reduce its digital carbon footprint?
The law is primarily aimed at reducing the environmental footprint associated with the manufacture of digital terminals, and contains few provisions for reducing emissions linked to the use of digital technology by private players.
And yet, it's essential that all professionals get to grips with this issue. The benefits are numerous, but at the same time, this explosion in digital usage is inevitably accompanied by an increase in the digital carbon footprint of public and private players alike.
To mitigate this trend, companies can help their employees to adopt "good digital practices", such as reducing the number of messages exchanged via e-mail, tidying up mailboxes, and encouraging audio rather than video exchanges.
According to ADEME, IT equipment accounts for 21% of an office company's electricity consumption. With both financial and environmental objectives in mind, it is in the interest of professionals to raise the awareness of their IT fleet managers and purchasing managers.
Sources :
Law no. 2021-1485 of November 15, 2021 aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of digital technology in France - ADEME website