Eco-Friendly Web Alliance at the World Economic Forum 2025

[Davos, Switzerland – 29 January 2025]

The Eco-Friendly Web Alliance (EFWA) was at the World Economic Forum 2025 in Davos, Switzerland, where it made a strong push to elevate the topic of digital and IT sustainability within global discussions. Represented by Chair Shane Herath and Dr Bindunie Rowland, Advisory Board – Impact, EFWA took part in a series of critical talks surrounding the environmental costs linked to digital activity. The delegation actively participated in discussions and panel sessions, engaging directly with senior leaders and officials on urgent environmental impact of the internet and digital infrastructure.

A key topic raised by EFWA was the growing commercialisation of artificial intelligence (AI) and its rapid development. With the increasing energy demands of AI, EFWA highlighted the significant environmental consequences, such as the high levels of water consumption and e-waste generated. EFWA called for stricter checks and measures on its environmental and ethical impacts, emphasising the need to ensure its responsible use.

EFWA’s participation in the Climate Scale-Up programme, a global accelerator dedicated to scaling climate tech solutions, also stood out. This initiative’s mission to bridge the gap between innovators, investors, governments, and other key players mirrors EFWA’s own objectives. By fostering collaboration and scaling impactful solutions, the programme aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices. EFWA’s involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to driving sustainability within the digital sector by supporting the development of solutions that pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

In addition to these discussions, EFWA joined other innovators and advocates at the Climate-Conscious Gala, a celebration of creativity and community that raised awareness for a variety of causes. This event served as a perfect platform for EFWA to continue its advocacy on digital carbon emissions and IT sustainability. It reinforced the crucial role businesses play in addressing the environmental impact of their digital presence.

As part of its mission to drive sustainability in the digital sector, EFWA introduced its free audit, "What’s my website’s impact on the planet? 🌍." The tool has already helped thousands of businesses worldwide assess and reduce their website’s carbon footprint by offering an easy and practical way to track digital emissions. Websites that pass the audit become eligible for EFWA's carbon-conscious website accreditation, which provides organisations with a clear pathway to maintaining their digital presence in a low-carbon, responsible manner. The accreditation includes built-in regular audits and checks, encouraging organisations to improve their carbon rating by adopting green hosting, monitoring their annual carbon emissions, and embedding carbon-conscious practices. These actions offer a practical solution for businesses to reduce the environmental impact of their digital operations and build a more sustainable online presence.

However, the digital emissions challenge is only part of the equation. The global e-waste crisis, which sees over 50 million tonnes of waste generated annually, calls for immediate action. At Davos, discussions focused on the importance of integrating circular economy principles, such as repairability and extending the lifespan of devices, into the tech industry.

As the week’s conversations highlighted, it is imperative to ask tough, challenging questions:

• How can we drive digital innovation while ensuring environmental responsibility?
• Is it possible for AI to evolve sustainably, without sacrificing the health of the planet?
• What more can businesses do to reduce their online and operational impact?

The discussions in Davos reinforced the urgent need for businesses to strike a balance between digital progress and environmental responsibility. EFWA remains dedicated to guiding this shift in the industry, offering practical solutions for a sustainable future.

The road ahead is challenging, but the opportunities for positive change are immense. EFWA continues to champion a greener, more sustainable digital future.

For more information and media inquiries, please contact:

Eco-Friendly Web Alliance (EFWA)

Email: info@ecofriendlyweb.org