Rethinking digitalization and climate: don’t predict, mitigate

Daria Gritsenko, Jon Aaen, Bent Flyvbjerg

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Abstract

Digitalization is a core component of the green transition. Today’s focus is on quantifying and predicting the climate effects of digitalization through various life-cycle assessments and baseline scenario methodologies. Here we argue that this is a mistake. Most attempts at prediction are based on three implicit assumptions: (a) the digital carbon footprint can be quantified, (b) business-as-usual with episodic change leading to a new era of stability, and (c) investments in digitalization will be delivered within the cost, timeframe, and benefits described in their business cases. We problematize each assumption within the context of digitalization and argue that the digital carbon footprint is inherently unpredictable. We build on uncertainty literature to show that even if you cannot predict, you can still mitigate. On that basis, we propose to rethink practice on the digital carbon footprint from prediction to mitigation.
OriginalsprogEngelsk
Artikelnummer43
Tidsskriftnpj Climate Action
Vol/bind3
ISSN2731-9814
DOI
StatusUdgivet - 7 jun. 2024

Emneord

  • Climate-change mitigation
  • Climate-change policy

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