IaaS is another key area that can address some of the ESG challenges businesses face. Crucially, when AEC firms move to an IaaS model the responsibility of infrastructure management moves to the cloud provider, along with power consumption and carbon footprint. Cloud providers can make intelligent use of virtual machines and containers to reduce the number of servers needed at data centers and can therefore improve sustainability and ESG scores.
By hosting data, applications and IT services with Creative ITC, IaaS clients benefit from smaller carbon footprints from the operation of data centres and servers, for example. Also, they no longer need to maintain on-prem technology, resulting in less energy consumption, lower cooling costs, and less waste from decommissioned equipment.
Applying ESG as a Value Creator
Research by McKinsey identified five solid links between strong ESG performance and value creation:
- Top-line growth
- Cost reductions
- Productivity uplift
- Fewer regulatory and legal interventions
- Investment and asset optimisation
Publically-owned star performers are also more likely to see higher equity returns, less downside risk (potential loss in share value if market conditions decline), lower loan and credit default swap spreads and higher credit ratings.
Case Study
One Creative client, a multi-award winning international architecture, masterplanning and design studio, are well on their way. They migrated 400-plus UK employees to VDIPOD transforming collaboration, workflows and ESG performance with a 90% reduction in kilowatt hours (kWh) per person and a three-fold increase in renewable power use. Those benefits will multiply further still when Creative completes a full global rollout and onboards VDIPOD users in Asia Pacific, the US and Canada.
In conclusion, there’s a sound case for privately-run and publiclytraded AEC firms to consider sustainable solutions like VDIPOD and IaaS, which can dramatically reduce carbon footprint and positively impact environmental scorecards. Not only to maximise business opportunities and make more tender lists, but also to strengthen their reputation and commitment in their stakeholders’ eyes. Future success will depend upon it.