The Digital Dilemma: Climate Threat or Enabler for Net Zero?

Amazon promises to be net zero by 2040, Google by 2030. Apple aims to be carbon neutral by 2030, and Microsoft even carbon negative. Yet, the IT sector is not aligned with global climate goals and is causing more and more CO2 emissions. In other sectors, digitalization is often seen as a climate savior. However, even though digital applications provide a large theoretical potential for emission reductions, this potential has not yet been realized. For example, digital mobility services can make public transportation more attractive and efficient, but through car- and ride-sharing, they can also increase car traffic. With the breakthrough of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the role of digital technology in the economy and everyday life will increase even further. To ensure that the next era of digitalization does not increase environmental problems, targeted action is required. In his lecture, Jan Bieser discussed the opportunities and risks of digitalization for climate protection and pathways toward a sustainable digital society.