Type of Publication: Article in Collected Edition

Green IS Does Not Just Save Energy - Insights from a Survey on Organizations' Uses of Sustainable Technologies

Author(s):

Schmermbeck, H.; Thünnesen, J.; Voss, N.; Ahlemann, F.

Title of Anthology:

Proceedings of the 53rd annual Hawaii International Conference on Systems Science

Location(s):

Hawaii, USA

Publication Date:

2020

Link to complete version:

https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/bitstream/10125/63852/0090.pdf

Citation:

Download BibTeX

Abstract

Organizations are increasingly challenged to digitally transform themselves, and to respond to calls for increased sustainability. While the adoption of sustainable innovations, such as Green information systems (Green IS), are one way to address both challenges, there are only few insights that provide non-technology or company-specific insights into specific positive and negative Green IS outcomes. We address this shortcoming and shed light on Green IS adoption outcomes, as well as their interconnection to general sustainability initiatives in organizations. In a descriptive survey we find that many organizations already employ sustainability principles, but few incorporate Green IS. We confirm organizations almost exclusively report positive outcomes of Green IS usage, such as reduced resource consumption, increased compliance with regulations, and social acceptance. Based on these findings we suggest to especially further research the process of Green IS adoption.