The Sustainable IT Manifesto
We are uncovering better ways of developing software and hardware by doing it and helping others do it. Through this work, we have come to value:
Prioritizing energy conservation, whether in the design of software algorithms or the architecture of hardware components, even if it means potentially sacrificing top-tier performance.
Using resources like processing power, memory, and material components efficiently, reducing waste in both software and hardware production.
Making decisions in software and hardware design and development that favor lasting positive impacts on the environment, even if they don't provide immediate financial benefits.
Understanding and considering the broader impact of decisions, whether they pertain to software logic or hardware assembly, and recognizing their interconnectedness.
While profitability is essential, we should weigh the environmental benefits and contributions against the exclusive pursuit of financial returns.
Including diverse perspectives, from software engineers to hardware technicians, to ensure that environmental considerations are comprehensively addressed.
Flexibility in planning, allowing for adjustments based on new information or changing environmental contexts in both software and hardware fields.
Being open and honest about the environmental impacts, both in software's energy consumption and the environmental cost of hardware production.
Committing to ongoing learning about environmental impact and sustainability, from understanding the energy costs of running software to recognizing the carbon footprint of hardware manufacturing processes.
Recognizing the importance of overall wellbeing and the impact of our software and hardware decisions on communities and ecosystems.
When designing hardware, choosing materials that are sustainable, recyclable, or have a minimal environmental impact, even if they are costlier.
Designing hardware that is durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thereby reducing electronic waste.
Through following these principles, we aim to foster the development of software and hardware that not only meet the needs of customers and businesses but also contribute positively to the environment and society. This manifesto is a call to action for developers, manufacturers, managers, and organizations alike to integrate environmental sustainability into the core of their practices.