• Ongoing Projects
• Assessing Net Climate Impact of Digital Infrastructures

Digital infrastructures such as data centres and networks consume energy – but can also help to avoid emissions. This study investigates how both sides of this balance can be scientifically analysed. The aim is to visualise the net climate impact of digital technologies, i.e. the difference between the emissions caused and the emissions saved.

How do digital infrastructures affect the climate?

Proven assessment methods from climate research and the energy industry will be used and further developed for the analysis. For this purpose, existing methods for both the negative effects and the positive impact will be examined for their suitability and harmonised in such a way that balances can be drawn up within a standardised assessment framework. The result is a methodology that shows how digital infrastructures affect the climate – not only negatively, but also positively.

From footprint to handprint

An important component is the so-called handprint assessment. While the footprint describes the ecological footprint – i.e. the greenhouse gas emissions caused – the handprint shows the positive climate effects resulting from the use of digital technologies. These can be, for example, emission savings through more efficient processes, smart networks or digital services.

On this basis, a new evaluation method is being developed that can be used to visualise the climate effects of digital infrastructures in a comparable way. The results should help political decision-makers, investors and operators to make sustainable decisions. And support the implementation of the EU taxonomy in the area of digital infrastructure, for example.

Borderstep’s experience and research expertise

The Borderstep Institute brings extensive experience and expertise to this study. Borderstep has been conducting research into sustainable digitalisation, energy efficiency and the climate impact of new technologies for many years. With interdisciplinary expertise and numerous practical projects, the institute combines scientific accuracy with a clear view of real-world applications. The ideal basis for assessing the climate impact of digital infrastructures holistically for the first time.

The study was commissioned by the European Commission, Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CNECT). The study is being carried out by the Borderstep Institute together with its partners Carbon Trust and the Roegen Centre for Sustainability.