S1 E10: Greening Tech: How AI and Digital are changing the Sustainability Landscape with Tim Prosser

The technological revolution transforming Australian businesses carries a hidden environmental cost that few sustainability practitioners fully understand. In this revealing conversation with digital sustainability expert Tim Prosser, we uncover the substantial climate impact of our digital lives and explore how organisations can address this overlooked aspect of their sustainability strategy.

Did you know that 40% of an individual's carbon budget aligned with a 1.5-degree target is consumed by digital services? Or that by 2030, data centres could require 8% of Australia's power grid – equivalent to the entire steel industry? These startling figures highlight why sustainability practitioners must engage deeply with their technology counterparts as mandatory climate reporting approaches.

Tim draws fascinating parallels between the evolution of IT and sustainability functions within organisations. "About 10-15 years ago, there was a real flip where organisations went from having an overall strategy supported by an IT function to being an IT company in a specific sector," he explains. "I see an opportunity for sustainability to go through that transition."

We explore how the AI revolution is complicating sustainability efforts, with major tech companies already reporting missed climate targets due to energy-intensive AI deployments. Yet Tim also reveals the tremendous opportunity: research shows 84% of technology professionals prefer sustainability outcomes over cost-cutting measures, representing an army of potential champions waiting to be engaged.

For sustainability practitioners preparing for mandatory reporting, Tim provides practical guidance on establishing accurate technology emissions baselines, addressing e-waste challenges, and initiating productive collaborations with IT departments. He outlines common pitfalls in emissions calculations and explains how to move beyond spend-based approaches toward more meaningful measurements.

This episode offers essential knowledge for any sustainability professional looking to develop a comprehensive climate strategy that addresses the full environmental impact of their organisation's operations. Listen now to ensure your sustainability roadmap isn't missing this critical piece of the puzzle.

Your Hosts:
Dan Leverington
Loreto Gutierrez

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