UK businesses balance AI growth with sustainability aims

UK businesses are reportedly facing a delicate balance between sustainability goals and the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), new research by NetApp suggests.

The data, gathered by Censuswide, indicates that a significant 92% of British businesses acknowledge the environmental impact of single-use data. However, despite awareness, 38% of stored data remains unused, illustrating ongoing challenges in effective data management. This situation is juxtaposed with the surge in data anticipated as companies increasingly integrate AI into their operations.

Many business leaders are drawn to AI's competitive advantages, with companies estimating a 41% growth in their data estates as they pursue AI-driven initiatives. This expansion includes an increase in single-use data, further complicating sustainability efforts. Over a quarter of businesses forecast that their data footprint will expand by over 50% due to AI projects.

Despite these hurdles, a substantial number of IT leaders believe data management holds the potential to significantly reduce their carbon footprints. Findings reveal that 85% of IT leaders view data management as a crucial factor in reducing emissions, identifying it as the leading reason for addressing single-use data.

Efforts to manage single-use data are in place across many businesses, with regular data estate cleaning processes. However, the efficacy of these measures is called into question as the surplus of data continues to pose a challenge. Some UK technology firms find it more feasible to increase storage capacity rather than remove redundant data, further exacerbating the issue.

Matt Watts, Chief Technology Evangelist at NetApp, commented on the situation, stating, "NetApp has long highlighted the issue of single-use data, which consumes storage space indefinitely after its initial creation. Today's findings identify not just a challenge in data management, but a conundrum and a fine balance: British businesses want to reap the benefits and opportunities presented by AI, while reducing the carbon footprint of their data. Tackling single-use data is a key piece of this puzzle, and businesses must continue to invest more in reviewing and staying on top of their data estates."

The readiness of businesses to meet AI's demand for data is evident, with three out of four IT leaders having successfully adapted their data management to accommodate AI initiatives. These leaders are preparing for significant growth, recognising the essential role that strong data infrastructure plays in leveraging AI technologies.

Nicola Acutt, Chief Sustainability Officer at NetApp, stressed the complexity of translating environmental awareness into effective action. According to Acutt, "While awareness around the environmental impacts of AI and data is front of mind for many now, translating that awareness into action is where things get complex. The answer isn't necessarily to downsize data, or to make do with less. Businesses require practical expertise, resources and solutions, with sustainability baked in from the very start, to effectively manage their data and ensure more responsible AI implementation."

Additionally, Sue Daley OBE, Director at techUK, noted, "These findings suggest that UK technology businesses are at a critical juncture of their innovation and sustainability journey. It is encouraging to see many taking an active effort to reduce the emissions of IT operations. As AI implementation accelerates across businesses, it will be important to further build on these efforts, ensuring that resources and infrastructure are aligned to support responsible growth."