Perfection is the Enemy of Progress in Digital Sustainability
15 December 2025
Sustainability leaders often face analysis paralysis. Many wait for flawless baselines before taking action, but with IT Scope 3 emissions representing up to 70% of an organisation’s total footprint, every day of delay is a missed opportunity to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and make a real climate impact.
The cost of waiting is tangible. Emissions continue to grow, e-waste accumulates, and regulatory pressure is increasing. Organisations that hold off for perfect data risk falling behind in both sustainability and business performance. In reality, perfect data is a myth, and waiting for it comes at a high price.
A Directional Approach
The smarter approach is to act directionally: start quickly, implement early initiatives, and refine over time. Even initial insights can reveal opportunities to reduce IT’s carbon footprint, cut waste, and save money. Early wins build momentum, foster internal alignment, and strengthen confidence for longer-term programmes.
Working with the GDSA
Through our collaboration with the Government Digital Sustainability Alliance (GDSA), we are supporting organisations in taking practical steps to tackle Scope 3 emissions. The forthcoming GDSA Digital Scope 3 Insights Report will provide guidance on measuring, managing, and reducing digital emissions across the IT lifecycle. It includes actionable recommendations such as extending device lifecycles, optimising energy and software use, and engaging suppliers in sustainable practices. Watch out for its release to see how organisations can make meaningful progress without waiting for perfect data.
Outcomes of Early Action
Teams that start taking steps now can move from reactive to proactive sustainability management. Early initiatives deliver measurable results, helping organisations reduce emissions, optimise asset lifecycles, and improve regulatory readiness. Acting directionally also builds confidence in sustainability programmes, making subsequent strategic decisions more effective.
Looking Ahead
The journey to sustainable IT is iterative. Data will improve over time, processes will mature, and impact will compound. Organisations that act now, even with imperfect information, will be best positioned to achieve tangible reductions in emissions and gain a competitive advantage in a low-carbon economy.
Conclusion
Perfection may never come, but the impact of action is immediate. Engaging with initiatives such as the GDSA Scope 3 programme and accessing the Digital Scope 3 Insights Report enables organisations to begin making measurable changes today.
Explore your IT sustainability journey with KA2. Schedule a short, no-obligation session with our consultants to discuss your IT carbon footprint, lifecycle strategy, or digital sustainability priorities.
