Public sector organisations need increased levels of information, awareness, and a drastic improvement in how they share knowledge with and learn from other agencies, if they are to meet carbon reduction targets imposed by central government.
These are the main findings according to a new study, The Path to Greener Government, launched today by the independent environmental charity, Global Action Plan and equipment manufacturer, Cisco.
The survey of over 150 public sector IT managers explores public sector confidence in meeting the carbon reduction targets set out in last year's greening government information communication technology strategy.
Findings reveal 67% of those surveyed were concerned or extremely concerned about their organisations ability to meet the targets set out in the strategy.
The findings indicate that a number of public sector organisations are failing to adopt 'green IT' strategies, which if not changed, could mean central government could be adversely hit by its own carbon reduction commitment.
The report also found that only 16% of respondents are currently sharing best practice and knowledge in the development and implementation of green IT strategies with other public sector agencies.
Despite the financial pressures, 70% of respondents feel that green IT is still important and a number of public sector organisations are already introducing new technologies to help reduce their carbon emissions including new, real-time visual and audio collaboration technologies.
These new technologies can help government agencies cut carbon emissions, improve service levels and reduce costs. The survey reveals take up of these technologies is increasing, 30% of respondents have introduced a form of videoconferencing solution and a further 28% of respondents are using IT to promote and support flexible working practices.
