RETHINKING DATA CENTERS AS RESILIENT, SUSTAINABLE FACILITIES

Data centers have become one of the world’s most valuable resources. They enable e-commerce, cloud computing and remote work, helping businesses across nearly every industry meet growing demand. Due to the immense value and commercial sensitivity of the data stored and transferred, it’s essential that they have a strategy to minimize downtime and reduce risk — not only from cyber and physical intrusions but from human error, mechanical failure and increasing operating costs.

Further, facility managers are facing additional pressures to create more sustainable data center operations and drive clear outcomes. Data centers consume about 3% of the world’s electricity use — more than most countries — and produce 2% of total global carbon emissions — more than the entire airline industry. These numbers are expected to grow, making it crucial for businesses to invest in energy efficient infrastructures that lay the groundwork for a more sustainable future.

In today’s digitally connected world, data is produced in vast streams at an overwhelming volume and pace. While stored data totaled roughly 40 zettabytes (trillion gigabytes) globally in 2019, it is projected to reach 175 zettabytes by 2025. Businesses demand ever-greater assurances of dependable uptime, putting the burden on data centers to invest in automation and efficiency solutions to help avoid unscheduled downtime.