Colt DCS reduces emissions by 40% in sustainability push

Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS) has announced a significant step in its environmental strategy, reporting a 40% reduction in global absolute greenhouse gas emissions compared to its 2019 base year.

This reduction keeps the company on track to achieve its 1.5 degrees Celsius 2030 climate targets as approved by the Science-based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The announcement forms part of Colt DCS's second 2023 Sustainability Highlights Report, which showcases its ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. The report details several key initiatives the company has undertaken, including extensive renewable energy procurement and the implementation of energy efficiency measures.

These efforts are part of the broader strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2045.

The company has also prioritised collaboration with suppliers and customers to decarbonise its entire value chain. Zero waste operations and conserving natural resources are highlighted as crucial steps in preventing environmental degradation.

Notable achievements in the report include the use of 100% renewable electricity across Colt DCS operations in Europe and India. Additionally, the report indicates a 67% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, as well as a 38% reduction in Scope 3 emissions compared to 2019.

Beyond environmental efforts, Colt DCS has introduced the AIM Framework, aimed at enhancing its status as an employer of choice. According to the report, 83% of employees consider Colt DCS an excellent place to work, while their global customer satisfaction score stands at 74 on the Net Promoter Score (NPS) scale.

The report also highlights Colt DCS’s "A" rating on the CDP Climate score and a Platinum score from EcoVadis. The formation of a specialised Governance Committee further underscores the company's dedication to establishing robust corporate governance practices.

As digital technology demands increase globally, so does the proliferation of data centres, making it imperative for operators to focus on sustainable design and operation. Colt DCS has been actively expanding its data centres in India, Japan, the Netherlands, France, Germany, and the UK. New facilities in London, Paris, Frankfurt, Tokyo, and Mumbai will adhere to Colt DCS's Global Reference Design guidelines, which incorporate principles to enhance environmental sustainability.

Chief Executive Officer at Colt DCS, Niclas Sanfridsson, expressed appreciation for the support from customers, partners, and employees.

"I want to extend my gratitude to our valued customers, partners, and dedicated employees. Your support and collaboration have been instrumental in achieving this significant progress in our sustainability goals," he said.

"Data centres are the backbone of our global digital economy and a vital component of modern society. Designing, building, and operating these facilities with sustainability at the core has never been more crucial. Today, achieving our vision—to be the most trusted and customer-centric data centre operator in the industry—means investing in a future that is better for people, places, and the planet."

The report covering the year 2023 includes sustainability performance data across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) topics identified in a 2021 materiality assessment.

The Colt Group Sustainability Report has undergone independent verification by the British Standards Institution (BSI).