Challenges in transitioning to green ICT in a South African telecommunication company

Abstract

Green Information and Communication Technology (Green ICT) adoption has become a global priority due to the rising environmental impact of ICT operations. Literature indicates that although awareness of green ICT principles is steadily increasing globally, their actual implementation within organisations remains limited, with the gap especially visible in developing economies. This study focused on a leading telecommunications organisation in South Africa which faces challenges in aligning sustainability within ICT operations. The primary objective of the study was to identify the challenges facing a South African telecommunications organisation in transitioning to green ICT. The underpinning theory of the study included the Green IT Adoption Model (GITAM) which guided the study, and the Technology, Organisation and Environment (TOE) framework categorised findings across technological, organisational and environmental dimensions. A quantitative design was applied, using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to technology employees via simple random sampling, with data analysed using descriptive statistics and one-sample t-tests. The main finding indicated a clear gap between awareness and practical implementation. The main conclusions highlighted that organisational readiness, strategic alignment and environmental pressures significantly influence adoption, while financial constraints, limited training and poor communication, hinder progress. The management implications of the study included the need for stronger leadership support, improved training frameworks, enhanced communication strategies and better resource allocation to accelerate adoption. The main recommendations were the necessity for targeted investment, comprehensive awareness initiatives and collaborative engagement with stakeholders. The study contributes academically by addressing gaps in Green ICT literature and practically by providing actionable insights for the organisation under study and the wider telecommunications sector. Given its strategic role in reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable practices, further studies regarding Green ICT adoption are suggested for the South African telecommunications sector