Equinix unveils 2023 sustainability report, focus on ESG
Global digital infrastructure company Equinix has unveiled its 2023 Integrated Sustainability Report, outlining progress made towards its robust environmental, social and governance (ESG) targets. In the face of ever-increasing amounts of data being created by sectors such as healthcare, finance and manufacturing, the report highlights Equinix's dedication to sustainable innovation as it tries to meet these intensified performance demands while minimising environmental impact.
Equinix's commitment to sustainability impacts its entire operation. It strives for improved efficiency, increased use of renewable energy, optimised supply chain performance, and reduced emissions, alongside fostering an inclusive workforce and maintaining ethical principles of integrity. "We need to remain focused on delivering the digital infrastructure to meet society's demands while not compromising sustainability goals," says Christopher Wellise, VP of Sustainability at Equinix.
In line with their long-term goals, Equinix continues major strides towards achieving 100% renewable energy coverage by 2030. In 2023, the company sustained 96% renewable energy coverage spanning its operations. This is the sixth consecutive year of achieving greater than 90% renewable energy coverage across its global footprint. Furthermore, it made improvements in its facilities' energy efficiency as determined by power usage effectiveness (PUE) – with an 8%+ advancement compared to the previous year. Equinix was also acknowledged for its climate transparency by achieving the highest ranking in the CDP's prestigious Climate Change A List for the second consecutive year, a ranking few companies achieved.
The report also shines a light on the results of Equinix's environmental, social and governance commitments. Environmental advancements included cutting operational emissions by 24% from 2019 baseline figures and issuing USD $4.9 billion in green bonds, leading to an annual energy saving of around 1,800 GWh and averted emissions exceeding 669,000 mtCO2 annually. On the social front, the Equinix Foundation supported 47 organisations working towards digital inclusion. It also increased its global female workforce by 17% and the number of Black/African American employees in the US by 14% compared to the previous year. In terms of governance, Equinix became a founding member of the Asia-Pacific Data Center Association and completed a decade of 100% employee ethics and compliance training completion.
In response to the advancing digital world's escalating power requirements, Equinix asserts its determination to meet these demands while upholding unwavering commitments to sustainability goals. With progressive environmental programs, socially responsible actions, and governance initiatives, Equinix strives to balance the duality of digital infrastructure demands and sustainability considerations within its operations. This latest report flags Equinix's persistent efforts to maintain sustainable digital infrastructure while looking ahead to ever-increasing industry demands.
