Shane Herath

Shane Herath is a thought leader in IT Sustainability, focused on sustainable innovation and circular economy principles. His work combines education, collaboration, and practical solutions to promote more sustainable digital practices.

As Chair of the Eco-Friendly Web Alliance (EFWA), Shane leads efforts to reduce digital carbon emissions and promote carbon-conscious web practices. EFWA pioneered website emission thresholds, helping establish the world’s first eco standard for websites, and offers “What’s my website’s impact on the planet?” audits to support organisations on their digital sustainability journeys. EFWA has worked with National Geographic Kids (NatGeo Kids), The British Medical Journal (BMJ), Rewilding Britain, London & Partners, The Official Domain Name for London, Convention Bureau London, and the Centre for Digital Public Services of Welsh Government.

With more than 20 years of strategic and innovation experience across the UK, USA, EMEA, and APAC, Shane has worked with leading companies and startups. He holds a Computer Science degree, a Graduate Diploma in Law, and IT Project Management certifications, combining technical, legal, and business expertise. As an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Exeter Business School, he teaches Digital Business & New Technology and Strategy & Innovation.

Since June 2022, Shane has been an expert panel member of Computer Weekly’s IT Sustainability Think Tank, contributing to discussions on green IT, AI for good, circular economy in IT industry and responsible digital innovation. He advocates for technology that addresses global challenges while ensuring appropriate checks and balances on its environmental impact. As a columnist for The Scotsman, he writes on internet emissions, AI’s environmental impact, and responsible digital technology.

Shane has also worked with Future17 through EFWA for nearly three years, supporting students tackling projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Co-founded by QS and the University of Exeter, Future17 connects multinational organisations, universities, and student teams. Shane has led projects focused on e-waste and sustainable device lifecycle management, including structured 8-week internships. He also contributes to Global & Tech Advocates, supporting the global technology community and environmental responsibility.

Shane contributes to international digital sustainability efforts through the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)'s Sustainable Web Interest Group. He helped develop the Web Sustainability Guidelines (WSG), the first globally recognised framework for environmentally responsible digital products and services. Drawing on principles similar to web accessibility standards, the WSG provides practical guidance for reducing the internet’s carbon footprint. Shane continues this work through the W3C Sustainable Web Interest Group as an Invited Expert to the W3C.