Packt Publishing Sustainable IT Playbook for Technology Leaders: A hands-on guide to designing and scaling sustainable IT strategies for the digital age

At a time when digital technology intersects with non-negotiable climate responsibility, this updated edition presents modern strategies and tools technology leaders need to build and scale sustainable IT practices for long-term impact Key Features Execute an actionable sustainable IT strategy using updated global frameworks and metrics Build your credibility as a sustainable IT advocate and stand out among senior IT leaders Access new case studies from peers on starting and accelerating IT sustainability journeys Download additional tools and resources from the book’s website Book Description While the climate crisis poses a threat to planetary health, digital transformation continues to reshape our societies. The challenge for technology leaders is no longer understanding why sustainability matters but knowing how to take decisive, responsible action. This book gives you the clarity, confidence, and tools to drive meaningful change. Updated with the latest trends, case studies, and insights, including responsible and sustainable AI lifecycle governance, it walks you through every stage of developing and implementing a sustainable IT strategy. The book is structured in three parts. Part 1 explores the “why,” grounding you in the reality of the urgent climate crisis we face today, how we arrived here, the planetary boundaries we must restore, and the broader impact of IT on society. Part 2 covers the “what,” outlining the practical actions you can take to drive meaningful returns on sustainable investments and build a greener future. Part 3 focuses on the “how,” establishing baselines, setting direction, and applying real-world case studies to help you translate intent to impactful global outcomes. Whether you’re building a sustainability strategy from the ground up or enhancing existing initiatives, this book prepares you to lead the way with confidence and deliver outcomes that matter. What you will learn Recognize the environmental impact of IT systems and digital infrastructure Integrate sustainability into IT governance, procurement, and software delivery Apply the latest methods to optimize workloads, reduce emissions, and measure impact Establish a science-based carbon emissions baseline for IT operations Build sustainability KPIs and dashboards that align with business reporting Inspire IT teams, partners, and C-level stakeholders to embrace sustainability Navigate current regulations, certifications, and industry frameworks Who this book is for This book is for CIOs, CTOs, CDOs, and senior IT leaders driving sustainable transformation within their organizations. Also essential for sustainability officers, IT strategists, cloud architects, and consultants looking to embed sustainability into digital innovation. Table of Contents Our Most Significant Challenge Ahead Rise of Sustainable IT The Fundamental Building Blocks of a Sustainable IT Practice Responsible and Sustainable AI Governance Social Sustainability: Accessibility, AI, and the Digital Divide Data Centers and the Cloud Applications and Architecture Data IT Hardware Management Energy Resource Management Leveraging Your Buying Power Sustainability by IT Get Started Today Putting a Sustainable IT Strategy in Place From Strategy to Action – Lead with Purpose and Deliver Progress Quickly