Challenges for ‘Green IT’ in the Scottish ADM industry

Abstract

Our research reports specifically on the challenges and behaviours towards ‘Green IT’ experienced within one complex industry. We adopt a theoretical stance based upon Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to formulate an outline ‘Green IT’ agenda. We draw on historical thinking which underpins UTAUT, which can be traced back to the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and the frequently adopted technology acceptance model (TAM). Recent research on the business case for a green IT strategy identifies benefits to an enterprise’s revenue and/or cost rather than just its image making. In this respect, empirical evidence was collected and analysed from the Aerospace, Defence and Marine (ADM) industry in Scotland which includes over 800 companies employing nearly 40,000 staff which creates Gross Value Adding to the Scottish economy of around £2 billion. Data collection involved an on-line based semi structured questionnaire to all 180 Aerospace and Defence organisations using the Scottish Enterprise Database. Our findings suggest a need to develop unified measurements to evaluate green IT progress. Specifically, these should include a metric capable of measuring IT companies’ net environmental activism, assessing not only the impact of changes but also on the operations and products of their clients.