Cisco Networker’s given a Green makeover

The report commissioned by Cisco detailed the Green initiatives implemented at its 2007 Networker’s event and their corresponding environmental impact.

According to Tony Wright, chairman of Cisco Civic Council, the modifications may appear small, however when aggregated these strategies can translate into significant carbon emission reductions.

“Small things can have a significant impact in reducing carbon emissions at events. The size of the event provides significant opportunity in collaboration with the partner community,” he said.

Wright explained the main emphasis at the Networker’s conference was on digital signage to alleviate the requirement for paper banners; food waste; and offering the option of completely electronic tutorial notes.

“For the upcoming event, we’re directing a greater emphasis to food waste and digital signage – it seems simple but it’s very important,” he said.

Cisco is comfortable with its corporate image and acknowledges it is not necessarily an innovator of Green IT, rather the company is simply playing its part in the environmental movement, said Wright.

“I don’t think we’re trail blazing, we’re just trying to be environmentally responsible,” he said. “We’re set up an environmental task force, which is focusing on improving last years results.”

At Cisco Networkers 2007, utilising renewable energy was estimated by the study to have saved the equivalent of almost 208 tonnes of carbon emissions. The additional initiatives saved a further 4.3 tonnes of carbon emissions, and almost 70 per cent of waste was recycled. Wright credits the channel for its assistance in achieving these goals.

“Cooperation and collaboration with the channel can have an impact on the environmental footprint,” said Wright. “The level of commitment of vendors is coming from general awareness of the environmental impact so it’s not just about the end user experience, it’s also about understanding the challenges ahead.”