Schools are under growing pressure to reduce their environmental impact — and ICT is a good place to start. From energy bills to e-waste, technology contributes significantly to a school’s carbon footprint. The good news is that small, practical changes can make a real difference, and they don’t have to come at the expense of learning outcomes or budgets.
Here are ten approaches schools can take — all of which can be supported through our Department for Education (DfE)-approved ICT procurement framework.
1. Upgrade to energy-efficient hardware
Modern devices are designed with lower power consumption in mind. Replacing old kit with newer, energy-saving models doesn’t just help to cut your carbon footprint — it usually means faster, more reliable performance for staff and students.
2. Make the most of refurbished devices
Not every classroom needs brand-new hardware. Refurbished equipment, supplied with proper warranties, can extend the life of technology while avoiding unnecessary e-waste. Many schools find a mix of new and refurbished devices gives them the best balance of performance and sustainability.
3. Shift more services to the cloud
Running on-site servers can be costly and inefficient. Cloud solutions reduce electricity use and, when hosted in renewable-powered data centres, dramatically lower carbon emissions. Our DfE-approved framework connects schools with providers who can guide a smooth and secure transition.
4. Take control of device power use
It’s easy to underestimate how much energy is wasted by devices left running. Simple steps like scheduled power-downs, automated updates, or tighter print management quickly add up. Schools that have adopted centralised device management tools often report noticeable energy savings in the first year.
5. Rethink printing
Moving away from rows of desktop printers towards centralised, energy-efficient multi-function devices can cut both costs and carbon. Pair that with a print policy — perhaps encouraging digital worksheets or default double-sided printing — and savings start to compound.
6. Choose environmentally responsible suppliers
Technology procurement isn’t only about the kit itself. Working with suppliers that meet ISO 14001 environmental standards means sustainability is built into the supply chain, not bolted on afterwards. Through our framework, schools can easily identify partners with the right credentials.
7. Plan for recycling from the start
End-of-life equipment shouldn’t become an afterthought. Responsible recycling ensures secure data removal and proper disposal of materials. Schools that build this into their ICT strategy from the beginning find it far easier to manage upgrades sustainably. With the Everything ICT framework, schools can connect directly with suppliers who take care of the process properly — meeting environmental regulations while making upgrades far easier to manage.
8. Pay attention to “hidden” energy use
Interactive displays, charging trolleys, and projectors are often left running or on standby without anyone noticing. Opting for energy-efficient models, and making sure staff know how to use built-in power-saving features, can cut unnecessary electricity use and reduce costs over time.
9. Build sustainability into classroom culture
Sustainability works best when it becomes part of daily habits. Encouraging staff and pupils to switch off devices, minimise printing, and think carefully about digital use reinforces a school’s wider environmental goals. Suppliers can often provide resources to support this cultural shift.
10. Measure and review progress
Carbon reduction isn’t a one-off project. Regularly monitoring ICT energy use helps schools spot where improvements are working — and where more change is needed. Accessing expert advice and reporting tools through Everything ICT can help to make this process far more manageable.
Reducing the ICT carbon footprint is as much about smart planning as it is about new technology. Schools don’t have to tackle it alone — the right suppliers and partners make a big difference.
🔗 Find sustainable ICT suppliers through our framework and take your next step towards greener, smarter technology.
