Digital Sustainability and the Net Zero Agenda

Abstract

The present study examines awareness, practices and policy gaps related to digital sustainability and the Net Zero agenda in academic libraries of higher education institutions ranked by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in Jammu & Kashmir, India. Given the growing environmental impact of digital infrastructures, academic libraries are important stakeholders in advancing sustainable digital transformations. Through a survey of library professionals in NIRF-ranked institutions of Jammu & Kashmir, the study reveals differing levels of digital sustainability awareness and adoption. Results show strong conceptual awareness of sustainability principles, yet institutional policy frameworks remain limited and the implementation of sustainable Information and Communication Technology (ICT) practices, such as energy-efficient computing, e-waste management and green procurement, remains fragmented. Barriers identified include financial limitations, lack of training and weak governance structures. Notably, cloud-hosted systems and open access initiatives are increasingly embraced, indicating budding progress. The study highlights the need for policy alignment, infrastructure investment and capacity building to translate awareness into action.