Greening West Africa’s Digital Future: Addressing Tech-Driven Emissions

West Africa's digital economy is expanding rapidly, driven by advancements in ICT, artificial intelligence, and industrial automation. While this transformation fuels economic growth and innovation, it also contributes to rising greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Data centres, digital devices, and industrial automation systems consume vast amounts of energy, often powered by fossil fuels, further exacerbating climate change. Despite the increasing global focus on sustainable digital infrastructure, developing economies like Nigeria lack comprehensive research and policies to mitigate these environmental risks.

This session will explore the intersection of digital transformation and environmental sustainability, drawing insights from our research on Technology-Led Greenhouse Gas Emissions (THGE) in Nigeria. Our findings indicate that inefficient e-waste management, weak emission reporting systems, and a lack of green technology incentives significantly contribute to environmental harm. Furthermore, Nigeria's reliance on fossil fuels and the limited integration of renewable energy into ICT operations pose critical challenges. Comparative insights from South Africa, Brazil, and India will highlight key lessons on policy implementation and sustainability strategies that West African nations can adopt.

To ensure a more resilient and environmentally responsible digital future, the session will explore policy recommendations and practical interventions, including:

1. Carbon taxation and regulatory enforcement to reduce emissions from digital operations.

2. Incentives for renewable energy adoption within the ICT sector to promote sustainability.

3. Strengthening public-private partnerships to drive investment in green technology solutions.

4. Developing sector-wide sustainability frameworks for emission tracking and green ICT policies.

5. Enhancing digital infrastructure efficiency through energy optimization and circular economy approaches to e-waste management.

This session aims to bridge the gap between technological innovation and environmental responsibility by addressing these key areas. We will explore how AI, data governance, and emerging technologies can drive sustainable digital transformation while minimizing their ecological footprint. Additionally, the session will examine policy frameworks that ensure West Africa's digital expansion aligns with global climate targets, net-zero commitments, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through a multi-stakeholder dialogue involving policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders, we will develop actionable solutions to promote a sustainable digital economy. This session will provide a roadmap for integrating environmental sustainability into national and regional digital transformation strategies, ensuring that West Africa's digital future is inclusive, resilient, and ecologically responsible.