Data centers are the backbone of our digital infrastructure, playing a pivotal role in powering modern life. However, this immense responsibility also brings with it the necessity to address the environmental impacts associated with our operations, particularly in the realm of waste management. Enter Zero Waste Validation, a framework that goes beyond reducing waste to demonstrate proper ecological stewardship. For EdgeConneX, achieving these validations is a milestone and reflects our commitment to sustainable, high-performance digital infrastructure.
What Are Zero Waste Validations?
Zero Waste Validations, like the UL 2799 Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWTL) Standard, provide external proof that businesses meet stringent waste diversion goals. Under UL 2799, organizations must divert at least 90% of their waste away from landfills through methods other than waste-to-energy processes to meet Zero Waste designations, while an industry standard of 75% or more diversion results in Landfill Diversion Validation. These validations ensure credible and transparent environmental responsibility, holding companies accountable while showcasing their leadership in sustainability.
“Achieving Zero Waste or Landfill Diversion validation isn’t just about meeting standards; it’s about setting a precedent for how the data center industry can prioritize environmental stewardship through innovation and collaboration. EdgeConneX is dedicated to implementing comprehensive waste management strategies, recognizing the necessity of engaging at various levels internally and in collaboration with vendors and customers. This approach is fundamental to our pledge to secure UL 2799 Zero Waste to Landfill Validation for all operationally controlled facilities by 2030, embodying a holistic commitment to zero waste encompassing downstream and upstream efforts.” – Haley Willis, Sr. Environmental Engineer and EdgeConneX Sustainability Team Member
The EdgeConneX Approach to Zero Waste
At the heart of EdgeConneX mission is a dedication to sustainability, energy efficiency, and progress. With a global footprint spanning over 80 data centers in more than 50 markets across four continents, environmental responsibility has become a core pillar of our operations. This focus extends to our Zero Waste initiatives, where cutting-edge innovation and collaboration drive results.
In 2024, EdgeConneX Amsterdam Campus achieved its initial UL 2799 ZWTL Platinum validation, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship. Reaching this certification was no simple feat; it required implementing advanced waste management strategies that surpassed the rigorous requirements UL Solutions established.
Success in Amsterdam is complemented by achievements at other global campuses. EdgeConneX data centers in Santiago, Chile, Brussels, Belgium, and Jakarta, Indonesia, have all earned Landfill Diversion Validations from UL Solutions. These achievements underscore the company’s determination to meet regulatory benchmarks and internal goals for reducing environmental footprints across its operations.
“Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond words. Every milestone we achieve reflects the dedication and teamwork that drive EdgeConneX toward a more sustainable future.” – Katie Tonucci, Environmental Analyst and EdgeConneX Sustainability Team Member
Partnerships and Technology Driving Innovation
A significant part of the process lies in EdgeConneX collaboration with UL Solutions, a globally recognized safety science and certification leader. UL Solutions provided guidance and stringent validation to ensure compliance with standards like UL 2799. This third-party endorsement not only confirms the quality of our efforts but also builds trust among stakeholders by demonstrating measurable progress in waste management.
“To achieve these milestones, we work closely with waste management specialists, use data-driven insights, and integrate high-accuracy tracking systems. These tools allow EdgeConneX to monitor waste generation, optimize diversion pathways, and refine processes to minimize landfill contributions sustainably,” continued Tonucci.
Building on Core Strengths for Sustainable Outcomes
EdgeConneX has built a global reputation for delivering bespoke digital infrastructure solutions with 99.999% availability. Our ability to scale AI-driven infrastructure and maintain reliability while prioritizing environmental goals helps us deliver global infrastructure for our customers. Sustainability is seamlessly woven into our operational model, proving that high performance can go hand-in-hand with responsible practices.
We demonstrate our leadership in digital innovation and combating environmental challenges by pursuing and achieving Zero Waste and Landfill Diversion validations. Waste management isn’t just a regulatory checkbox; it’s integral to our wider vision of supporting our Customers, People, and Planet.
Learn more in this UL Case Study: EdgeConneX and UL Solutions: Working Together in Promoting Sustainability.
Moving Forward with Purpose
EdgeConneX Zero Waste achievements highlight an essential truth for the data center industry and businesses: sustainability is no longer optional. It’s a responsibility and an opportunity for technological leaders to drive meaningful change.
From reducing waste to setting benchmarks in the global data center industry, EdgeConneX proves that innovation and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Through data-driven methods, team diligence, technological integration, and collaboration with leaders like UL Solutions, we’ve set a clear path forward for achieving Zero Waste in data centers.
For EdgeConneX, the mission continues, showcasing what’s possible when organizations put sustainability at the core of their operations.
To learn more about EdgeConneX sustainability initiatives and certifications, visit https://www.edgeconnex.com/company/sustainability/