The Greening government: ICT and digital services strategy 2020 to 2025 is the government’s plan to make digital and technology services more environmentally friendly.

It sets out how we can work together to reduce energy use from these services and make sure they're responsible and sustainable.

Vision

The UK government is a global leader in sustainable ICT (Information Communications Technology). It's committed to optimising its digital infrastructure and supply chains. It will ensure they are responsible, resilient, and free from exploitation.

Rules

When designing, building and buying technology, organisations must follow the:

1. Technology code of practice Follow the guidance for point 12, on how to increase sustainability of your technology:
   • what to consider from the start of your project
   • how to meet the government’s sustainability objectives
2. Spend control process
3. Business rules:
   • meet net zero by 2050
   • reuse equipment as much as possible, and repair and recycle to reduce waste
   • show transparency and accountability by reporting progress on sustainability goals and buying from suppliers who follow the UK Modern Slavery Act

Objectives

To achieve the vision, organisations must meet the strategy’s objectives:

• reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• improve management of resources and waste
• procure sustainable technology and digital services
• provide sustainability statements

Intended outcomes

The strategy’s objectives are linked to 5 outcomes:

1. reduced carbon and cost
2. increased resilience
3. increased responsibility