In a rapidly evolving landscape where sustainability targets are becoming more stringent, data centres are facing increasing pressure to reduce waste and embodied carbon. Circular economy principles are offering a new blueprint for efficiency, with remanufactured cooling components emerging as a major opportunity according to Will Pribyl, GM of Green Point UK.
Data centres are now required to consider their environmental impact across the entire life-cycle of materials and systems, moving beyond traditional efficiency metrics and embracing the holistic framework of the circular economy. This shift involves keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible, reducing waste, and prioritizing repair over replacement.
Adopting circular economy principles in data centres involves various strategies, from designing buildings and IT hardware for longevity to responsibly managing end-of-life assets. This approach not only aligns with regulatory requirements but also offers benefits such as cost efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced supply chain resilience. As the industry evolves, embracing circularity is becoming a strategic necessity rather than just a forward-thinking concept.