atNorth Joins UN Global Compact, Strengthening Its Sustainability Commitment

atNorth Joins the UN Global Compact: A Commitment to Sustainability

atNorth, a prominent Nordic provider of colocation, high-performance computing (HPC), and artificial intelligence (AI) services, has taken a significant step in its sustainability journey. The company has recently become a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact, reinforcing its dedication to responsible business practices that align with global sustainability goals.

Understanding the UN Global Compact

The UN Global Compact is a voluntary initiative that encourages businesses to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies. It comprises ten principles centered on human rights, labor standards, environmental sustainability, and anti-corruption. Established in 2000, it stands as the largest corporate sustainability initiative worldwide, holding its members accountable through annual disclosures of their practices and progress.

atNorth’s Sustainable Practices

atNorth has long been a champion for corporate responsibility, demonstrating its principles through strategic site selections, cutting-edge data center designs, and innovative heat reuse technologies. The company adheres to the internationally recognized standards of ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, ensuring that its operations minimize environmental impact and promote workplace safety.

A notable feature of atNorth’s operations is its ability to partner with firms like BNP Paribas and Shearwater Geoservices, helping them to decarbonize their IT operations. The company has also been vocal about the ecological challenges faced by the data center sector. It participates in multiple industry associations and initiatives, such as the Infrastructure Masons Climate Accord and the Climate Neutral Data Center Pact, which aim to minimize carbon emissions in digital infrastructure, targeting climate neutrality by 2030.

Enhancing Industry Standards

Joining the UN Global Compact allows atNorth to further its efforts in sharing its sustainability progress and stimulating a broader movement within the data center industry. The company aspires to not merely reduce environmental risks but also to create positive impacts on communities and the environment.

Eyjólfur Magnús Kristinsson, CEO of atNorth, emphasized the importance of this commitment, stating, “As awareness of the environmental and social impact of digital infrastructure continues to grow, we are committed to raising the bar and leading by example as a responsible business within the data center industry.” He expressed confidence that aligning with the UN Global Compact will foster transparency in their sustainability efforts.

The recent appointment of Cora Olsen as the Director of Sustainability reflects atNorth's strategy to enhance its sustainability framework. Cora noted, “Having recently joined atNorth, I am very impressed by the high level of ambition when it comes to sustainability. Becoming a signatory to the UN Global Compact is an important step forward to demonstrate our commitment to the global sustainability agenda.”

About atNorth

Founded in Iceland, atNorth has established itself as a leader in data center services, emphasizing cost-effective, scalable solutions coupled with a strong focus on sustainability. The acquisition of the renowned HPC provider, Gompute, in 2023 has strengthened its offerings, particularly in supporting AI and other high-performance computing applications.

All atNorth data centers operate on renewable energy, incorporating circular economy principles into their operations. Their innovative designs promote power efficiency and intelligent operational practices, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable growth.

Currently headquartered in Reykjavik, Iceland, atNorth manages seven data centers across the Nordic region, with plans for enhanced capacity in locations like Helsinki, Finland, and Ballerup, Denmark, by early 2025. This expansion represents atNorth’s recognition of the increasing demand for sustainable technological infrastructure.

For those looking to learn more about their developments and sustainability efforts, additional information is available on atNorth's official website or through their social media channels.