The state of sustainability in the IT ecosystem

Momentum in the IT sector's sustainability endeavors continues to amplify. As businesses grapple with the imperative for transparent sustainability performance, Canalys's 2023 sustainable channels survey reveals noteworthy trends:

• 47% of global partners are poised to derive revenue from sustainability solutions this year.
• However, over half remain hesitant, often attributing their reservation to perceived client disinterest, especially in the Americas.

These findings underscore a massive growth potential. While there is some skepticism regarding the revenue prospects of sustainability, industry behemoths are already capitalizing on the palpable demand. For example, Canalys' latest Sustainable Ecosystems Analysis report, published to clients, concludes that the burgeoning suite of SaaS offerings to monitor environmental impact and the advent of sustainability consulting services indicate the pivotal focus on sustainability not just within the IT sector, but across industries.

Canalys' focus on sustainable ecosystem

Building on its research, Canalys is amplifying its dedication to sustainability. A key initiative is the Sustainability Channels Initiative, an appeal to businesses in the channel ecosystem to champion sustainability. Canalys’s Sustainable Ecosystems Analysis service offers a profound dive into environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, ensuring that governance and community welfare are parallel priorities with environmental sustainability.

For businesses eager to evaluate their own sustainability credentials, Canalys’s Alys Assessment is the definitive guide. Through it, companies can introspect and identify areas of growth in their sustainability journey.

Upcoming events: Canalys Forums 2023

For those who wish to engage deeper, our three Canalys Forums 2023 promise insightful sessions. Key sessions include the Expert Hub on "Sustainability Embedded: why sustainable channels are here to stay", with the first scheduled on 4 October. This will be overseen by six vendor and partner panelists in EMEA - from Egiss, Softcat, Flex IT Distribution, Lenovo, BNP Paribas 3 Step IT and Schneider Electric.

Canalys will also host a workshop on "Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Action" later the same day.

A new chapter: advancing sustainability at Canalys

We stand at a pivotal juncture. The world demands change and sustainability beckons as the path to both responsibility and prosperity. Today, a year ago, we asserted a simple truth on LinkedIn: "Sustainability pays." Businesses today have an undeniable case to champion sustainability. As the earth continues to warm and our carbon budget* dwindles, our collective responsibility mounts. Fortunately, the world is reacting. Companies are surging ahead with green initiatives, and regulatory bodies are not far behind.

*A carbon budget refers to the remaining carbon emissions we can release if we are to meet the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.