Sustainability is an urgent matter. Unfortunately, the demand for nature is outpacing its supply. In fact, according to the United Nations, we are currently using 1.6 Earths to support our consumption levels, and if current trends continue, this number will rise to 2 Earths by 2030 [1]. Furthermore, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that we have less than a decade to limit global warming to 1.5°C or face severe climate consequences. Our ecological footprint is pushing beyond Earth’s capacity to support it.
For over 50 years, Earth Day has been a global event highlighting the importance of protecting our environment and promoting sustainable practices. It is an event that is important to me, and thankfully, it is quickly becoming a topic of urgency for the global business community. As we approach Earth Day 2023, we must recognize the role businesses and their leaders play in driving sustainability and the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda.
ESG and sustainability in business
Recent years have seen a growing awareness of the need for ESG and sustainability initiatives. CEOs worldwide increasingly understand the importance of integrating these factors into their business strategies for the environment and long-term growth and success. In fact, 80% of CXOs call out sustainability as top of mind, with the majority also acknowledging that [2]. This is an exciting business shift where CxOs globally becoming a “truly sustainable and responsible business” is a top priority. The majority believe IT investments are significant to reach sustainability goals.
As part of this movement, we at Cisco and Webex are leading the way in the tech industry by implementing energy-efficient technologies, participating in the circular economy, and enabling hybrid work.
Our Smart Building initiatives at Cisco focus on reducing energy consumption and optimizing resource use in our facilities. By employing advanced technologies such as IoT and AI, we create intelligent, connected buildings that contribute to a more sustainable future.
In addition to our energy-efficient solutions, we at Cisco and Webex are committed to the circular economy. Through refurbishing and recycling our devices, we ensure that materials are reused and repurposed, minimizing waste and promoting a sustainable product lifecycle. Webex has also made strides in reducing plastic use in our packaging, aiming to become 100% plastic-free.
In our ongoing efforts to build a more environmentally sustainable economy, we are introducing the Carbon Emissions Insights widget on Webex Control Hub, set to be released in the summer of 2023.
Webex announces sustainability innovations
As we celebrate Earth Day, it is vital to acknowledge the role businesses and their leaders play in driving sustainability and ESG initiatives. We at Cisco and Webex demonstrate that it is possible to integrate eco-friendly practices into daily operations, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future. So let us all join hands in making every day Earth Day by embracing sustainable practices in our own lives and supporting businesses committed to a better tomorrow.
Learn More:
- Webex Announces Industry-First Sustainability Innovations
- Power hybrid work, sustainably.
- 3 Webex Room Bar enhancements for a sustainable future
[1] United Nations Facts and Figures
[2] Sustainability Top of Mind for CEOs and Boards, IBM Survey Reveals
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