D2.1 – RESULTS OF THE INTERPRETATION AND SELECTION OF THE METHODOLOGIES

The ICT sector is estimated to contribute for 8-10% of the European electricity consumption and up to 4% of its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In the coming years it is expected the ICT to growth rapidly, potentially increasing its impact on the GHG emissions consequently. ICTFOOTPRINT.eu, as a Framework Initiative for Energy & Environmental Efficiency in the ICT Sector, aims at raising awareness and introducing the main aspects of a sustainable ICT focused on an environmental assessment approach. One of the objectives is to democratise the implementation of methodologies and standards and help SMEs in identifying the most relevant methodologies and implement them.

The purpose of this document is to present methodologies, specific to the ICT sector and related to the environmental footprint implementation, with a particular focus on carbon footprint and energy footprint, and to define the process and a list of criteria to select and assess their relevance for the ICTFOOTPRINT.eu. The analytical assessment presented in this deliverable is the core pillar for the definition and implementation of the tools and services that ICTFOOTPRINT.eu will propose to the various stakeholders.

Specifically, ICTFOOTRINT.eu has identified around 20 ICT-specific methodologies, hereby classified according to the nature, type of approach and impact assessed. Specific guidelines for the evaluation of the environmental impact of ICT products and organizations, including the applications of the methodologies are the most relevant aspects presented in this document to guide users in the choice of the most relevant ones according to the objectives pursued.

While the present deliverable provides an exhaustive overview and analysis of the methodologies that are currently available, ICTFOOTPRINT.eu will maintain active a continuous monitoring process, also including input from its authoritative EAG and feedback from all the stakeholders, in order to account for updates, new developments, and other relevant changes in the area.