From Our Desk: CIO Day: Igniting Change, Inspiring Tomorrow

As Tech Leaders, our responsibilities have traditionally revolved around innovation, efficiency, and security. But in 2025, there’s a fourth pillar we can’t afford to ignore: Sustainability.

From data center consumption to device lifecycle, the decisions we make have direct environmental consequences. And while sustainability was once seen as a “nice to have,” it’s now a strategic necessity—driven by ESG goals, stakeholder expectations, and a planet that’s out of time.

Sustainability isn’t just about reducing carbon footprints—it's about making future-proof tech decisions that are cost-efficient, responsible, and scalable.

Why Sustainability Should be a Concern

Here’s why sustainability is not a diversion from our goals—it’s a multiplier:

• Long-term cost efficiency through energy savings
• Stronger vendor accountability and resilience
• Better alignment with global and national compliance mandates
• Talent attraction—Gen Z and millennials prefer value-driven companies

76% of global enterprises say environmental impact influences their IT decision-making.
Source: Capgemini Research Institute, “Sustainable IT,” 2021

As Tech Leaders, we have influence over every layer of IT—from procurement to architecture. Here's how we can use that influence for long-term value.

5 Sustainable Tech Decisions Recommendations

1. Go Energy-Efficient with Hardware

Always ask vendors for Energy Star or EPEAT-certified products. These devices may cost a little more upfront—but their lower energy draw and durability pay off over time.
energystar.gov/globalepeat.net

2. Choose Cloud Providers with Clean Energy Commitments

Cloud computing has helped us scale—but it can also hide emissions. Organization must prioritize regions and providers that run on renewable energy or are carbon-neutral.
Google Cloud Sustainability Report 2023/Microsoft Sustainability Report

3. Implement Structured E-Waste Management

Organizations needs to formulate end-of-life policies for laptops, servers, and peripherals—working only with CPCB-approved or R2-certified recyclers. It’s good compliance, and it protects sensitive data.
CPCB Guidelines, India/SERI.org

4. Rethink Procurement through an ESG Lens

Always ask every vendor to share their sustainability roadmap or ESG disclosures. If they don’t have one—then pause. Your supply chain is your reputation.
Gartner, “Building Sustainability into IT Procurement,” 2022

5. Build a Remote-First, Energy-Efficient Culture

Post-COVID, organizations must invest in remote work infrastructure not just for flexibility—but for environmental impact. It reduces commuting, paper use, and unnecessary power loads.
IEA, “Digitalisation and Energy,” 2022

Time to Mobilize Influence for Good

Sustainability is no longer someone else’s job but everyone's. To shape the infrastructure of how modern businesses run, grow, and interact with the world. The tech Leaders must take responsibility and work towards a great good. 

If you're a fellow Tech Leader, my advice is: start with one area. One green shift. Then scale it. Sustainability and scale don’t have to be opposites.

Article written by Farhan Khan, Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Radico Khaitan Limited

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