IBM Impact: Turning Sustainability Ambition into Action

Global technology and innovation major IBM believes in being a part of the solution and not the problem, when it comes to climate change.

In an exclusive tete-a-tete with Sustainability Middle East (SME), IBM's General Manager for MEA, Saad Toma said: "IBM helps customers turn sustainability ambition into action through data driven innovation, with industry-leading consulting and technology capabilities."

Mr Toma is part of SME's 50 Sustainability Leaders initiative featuring in the launch edition of Sustainability Middle East (SME) magazine. He will also be a part of the SME Expert Panel 2022 Conference to be held in Dubai this December.

"According to the UN Environmental Program (UNEP), buildings use about 40% of global energy, 25% of global water, and 40% of global resources. They emit approximately 30% of GHG emissions. In that context, it is critical that organisations invest in sustainable infrastructure that adapts to future uncertain climate conditions," revealed Mr Toma.

IBM is presently working with several customers to build intelligent factories and offices that operate in an environmentally conscious manner. The company is also playing a major role in the ongoing COP27 conference as official Technology Partner.

Mr Toma adds: "As our CEO said, when it comes to the environment, we can be either part of the problem, or part of the solution. IBM has always believed in being part of the solution."

Towards this end the company has launched IBM Impact, its new ESG framework to create a more sustainable, equitable and secure future for the planet.

IBM aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030. IBM will also divert 90% of non-hazardous waste from landfill and incineration by 2025. The company aims to initiate 100 client engagements and research projects by 2025, with environmental benefits.

These goals and commitments are part of IBM's 21 Goals for Environmental Sustainability, which covers five areas - Energy and Climate Change, Conservation and Biodiversity, Pollution Prevention and Waste Management, Supply Chain and Value Chain, and the Management System.

Mr Toma concluded by giving out a very critical message for all: "Let's turn sustainability ambition into action."

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