IPDC Finance, based in Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh, has established itself as a pioneer in implementing green IT initiatives. Guided by Afzalur Rashid, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, it has placed significant emphasis on enhancing energy efficiency, adopting renewable energy solutions, managing e-waste responsibly, and engaging employees in sustainable practices.
Boosting Energy Efficiency
Afzalur Rashid has implemented several strategic measures to enhance energy efficiency within its IT infrastructure. These initiatives include server virtualization and the adoption of cloud computing, which have significantly reduced the number of physical servers needed.
To ensures ongoing energy savings, the company embraces ENERGY STAR-rated and energy-efficient equipment and regularly reviews and optimizes network equipment. The organization has also invested in eco-friendly cooling solutions and LED lighting across its infrastructure to minimize electricity consumption and environmental impact further.
Moreover, regular hardware upgrades and proper device configuration, including power management features, are key to maximizing energy efficiency. The company fosters a culture of innovation among its team members, encouraging them to contribute to sustainable and energy-efficient IPDC solutions.
Accessing Renewable Energy
IPDC Finance has adopted diverse strategies to access renewable energy for its IT operations. This includes engaging in Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to procure renewable energy directly, investing in on-site renewable energy generation such as solar panels or wind turbines, and supporting renewable energy projects through Green Tariffs and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).
These efforts aim to reduce the company’s reliance on fossil fuels and promote a sustainable energy future.
In addition to these renewable energy initiatives, the organization prioritizes data center efficiency improvements. These include optimizing server utilization, implementing advanced cooling techniques, and investing in energy-efficient hardware. These measures enhance operational efficiency and reduce overall energy consumption within their IT infrastructure, aligning with their commitment to sustainability.
Afzalur Rashid asserts: “We partnered with renewable energy developers to support the construction and development of new renewable energy projects, which can directly supply power to our operations.”
Leveraging cloud service providers committed to renewable energy and investing in energy storage solutions, such as batteries, further reinforces their dedication to sustainable practices and ensures a reliable power supply for their IT operations.
Responsible E-Waste Management
IPDC Finance has implemented defined e-waste management policies, emphasizing responsible disposal through Enhanced Producer Responsibility (EPR). The company collaborates with authorized recyclers to ensure compliant e-waste management, obtaining green certificates as a testament to their commitment.
The organization actively campaigns for public awareness to educate employees and stakeholders about responsible e-waste disposal practices. It also promotes the design of electronics with longer lifespans and recyclability, aligning with its sustainability goals and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Engaging Employees
IPDC Finance prioritizes environmental responsibility through various initiatives to promote green IT practices among its employees. It conducts comprehensive training programs focused on energy conservation, resource efficiency, and responsible e-waste handling, fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization.
The organization promotes using energy-efficient workstations and encourages best practices, such as powering down equipment when not in use. It also expanded remote work options to reduce carbon emissions associated with daily commuting, further supporting environmental objectives.
Afzalur Rashid adds: “We are pursuing certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for office buildings and encouraging employees to participate in achieving and maintaining these standards.”
Collaborating with Tech Partners
IPDC Finance partners with leading tech companies to advance their green initiatives, leveraging their expertise and solutions to enhance sustainability efforts
Microsoft plays a pivotal role by offering cloud services through Azure. The company is committed to sourcing 100% renewable energy. This partnership supports the company’s IT operations and aligns with its goal of reducing environmental impact.
ell Technologies contributes significantly through sustainable product design and robust recycling programs.
Cisco focuses on providing energy-efficient networking hardware and smart building technologies.
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) supplies IPDC Finance with energy-efficient servers and storage solutions.
Zoom Video Communications supports the company in managing online meetings and remote work environments efficiently.
Green IT Reporting
IPDC Finance produces comprehensive reports to track and enhance its sustainability efforts. These reports provide detailed insights into the organization’s environmental initiatives and operational practices.
The Sustainability Performance Report meticulously tracks and analyzes its Finance’s sustainability endeavours, highlighting achievements and areas for improvement.
A Carbon Footprint Report quantifies the organization’s total greenhouse gas emissions, clearly showing its environmental impact.
An Energy Usage Report details the organization’s energy consumption patterns, focusing on efficiency measures and areas where energy savings can be maximized.
IPDC Finance’s E-Waste Management Report outlines policies and practices for handling electronic waste responsibly. It describes how obsolete electronics are recycled and ensures compliance with environmental standards through Enhanced Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives.
The Green IT Initiatives Report highlights specific projects to promote energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact through IT innovations.
Compliance and Regulatory Reports ensure that the organization adheres to environmental laws and regulations. These reports include data on emissions, waste management practices, and other compliance-related metrics, providing transparency to regulators and stakeholders.
A Renewable Energy Usage Report documents its utilization of renewable energy sources and outlines plans for increasing renewable energy integration.
Environmental Impact Assessments evaluate the potential environmental effects of its operations, guiding decisions to minimize ecological footprints and mitigate environmental risks.
The Employee Engagement and Training Report showcases initiatives to involve employees in sustainability practices.
The Sustainability Goals and Progress Report reviews the organization’s set sustainability targets, and tracks progress toward achieving them.
Awards
IPDC Finance is recognized as the Best Climate Focus Financial Institute in Bangladesh. It has made significant strides in climate change mitigation and green governance. This award, supported by entities like USAID, reflects its integration of environmental sustainability into its business model and its leadership in promoting a sustainable future in Bangladesh.
Afzal Rashid concludes: “IPDC Finance has continually demonstrated a strong dedication to environmental sustainability by actively supporting green and sustainable initiatives. This recognition recognizes IPDC’s achievements as the top financial institution in Bangladesh Bank’s sustainability rating over the past couple of years. It underscores IPDC’s role as a leader in fostering a sustainable future for Bangladesh.”
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