Sustainability has become a top priority for organizations across industries, so it’s no wonder why SMBs are increasingly seeking ways to align their IT operations with eco-friendly practices. Colocation data centers offer a strategic solution that enhances operational efficiency while significantly contributing to a company’s sustainable IT goals.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the environmental benefits of working with the right colocation provider and how to start leveraging this sustainable IT approach for your business.
How Does Colocation Optimize Energy Use?
Colocation facilities are designed from the ground up with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind. They leverage advanced cooling technologies and energy-efficient infrastructure to minimize their environmental footprint, including:
- Efficient Cooling Systems: Modern colocation centers leverage cutting-edge cooling solutions like cold aisle containment, in-row cooling units, and free cooling systems that use outside air. These allow precise cooling delivery to the server racks while reducing the energy required for cooling compared to traditional computer room air conditioners (CRACs).
- Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE): PUE is the ratio of total facility energy usage to the energy used just for computing equipment. Many colocation providers aim for optimal PUE ratings to minimize waste.
- Energy-Efficient Infrastructure: From backup generators and UPS systems to electrostatically-charged filtration and airflow management, colocation facilities make sustainability a priority in their core infrastructure design.
How Can Colocation Align IT With Broader Sustainability Goals?
Beyond the direct environmental benefits of colocation, these services also enable SMBs to align their IT operations with broader sustainability goals such as:
Reduced Carbon Footprint
By leveraging the collective efficiency of colocation facilities, SMBs can lower their carbon emissions and, as a result, contribute to global efforts against climate change.
Resource Sharing
Colocation encourages the sharing of resources among multiple organizations, leading to more efficient use of energy and space and reducing the demand to construct new data centers.
Supporting Renewable Energy
Many colocation providers invest in renewable energy sources to power their facilities, offering SMBs an opportunity to support and benefit from green energy initiatives.
Why Should SMBs Choose a Green-Certified Colocation Provider?
When vetting potential colocation partners, it’s important for SMBs to prioritize providers who have earned top green certifications verifying their commitment to sustainability. These certifications indicate the facility meets the highest standards for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
- LEED Certification: Providers with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification have implemented strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, materials selection, and more throughout the facility.
- Energy Star Certified: The Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star certification is awarded to buildings and data centers that rank in the top 25th percentile for energy efficiency compared to other similar facilities nationwide.
- Green Globes Certification: This green rating assessment program evaluates resource efficiency, emissions, and environmental impact across energy, water, air, and project/facility management categories.
By selecting a colocation provider with these green certifications, SMBs can trust that their IT operations and digital infrastructure are hosted in an energy-efficient, eco-friendly facility that upholds best practices in sustainability.
Get Started With the Right Colocation Provider for Sustainable IT
Colocation is a powerful solution for SMBs to align their IT infrastructure with sustainability goals. By partnering with the right colocation provider, SMBs can reduce their carbon footprint, conserve resources, support renewable energy initiatives, and contribute to a healthier planet.
If you need guidance finding a colocation provider that prioritizes sustainability, eXemplify can help. We only work with industry-leading data centers, and we’ll leverage our trusted relationships to help you find a sustainable solution that meets your unique colocation needs. Contact the eXemplify team today to get started.