‘Technology in education’/ ‘education technology’/ ‘EdTech’ refers to the use of technology for enhancing the process of teaching and learning. The inclusion of AI, virtual reality and augmented reality, Learning Management Systems (LMS), smart devices, podcasts and multimedia resources, gamification models, and interactive whiteboards, into the educational arena is aimed at transcending the traditional barriers, enhancing engagement, and tailoring it to individual needs.

Sustainable EdTech is a relatively new concept that refers to integrating sustainable practices into the design and use of educational technology. Green EdTech has become a talking point in the last decade due to the shift in focus to reducing the digital footprint on the planet. The EdTech sector in India is steadily aligning with the NEP policy reforms to integrate green education and efficient learning models.  

Understanding how education sector can contribute to sustainable solutions

1. Reduced paper usage:

Classrooms that once completely and heavily relied on physical books and papers are now moving away and towards Learning Management Systems, cloud-based platforms, digital libraries, etc. Schools and colleges are slowly moving towards collecting assignments, assessments, and other study materials/feedback digitally, which can largely reduce the consumption of printed material and its storage. Digital libraries help access journals, books, and reference and/or research materials on the cloud, cutting down on the necessity for physical copies. Students can use cloud-based platforms for real-time collaboration, sharing documents, and other materials between themselves and with teachers. Remote learning and hybrid learning models reduce the necessity for physical infrastructure and allied costs.

For instance, it was seen that secondary schools in Nigeria partially transitioning to e-textbooks and digital libraries saved about 10,000 printed copies per year and saved two tons of paper waste per school.

Some universities in South Africa shifted to cloud-based LMS modules that saved the energy consumption on the premises by 35%, reduced paper consumption, and enhanced the efficiency of the administrative staff.

2. ‘Green tech’ is the next big thing:

a. Solar-powered classrooms, energy-efficient laptops, tablets, and other smart devices can contribute in a big way to sustainability.

b. Solar-powered digital labs that do not rely entirely on grid electricity but combine solar panels, battery storage systems, and digital infrastructure lower electricity consumption, reduce the carbon footprint, and promote sustainable education. This can power up energy-efficient LED lighting, smart boards, interactive displays, computers, laptops, and other gadgets.  

c. Green servers and data centers are designed to optimise the energy efficiency and reduce resource consumption to maximise the environmental impact. Companies like Facebook and Amazon make use of local hydroelectric power and AI-based cooling systems to ensure net-zero carbon emissions. When EdTech firms partner with green data centers for data storage, they can significantly contribute to the cause.

Case study: Smile Foundation in India installed solar-powered classrooms across many states, powering internet, smartboards, projectors, and e-learning platforms, impacting over 75,000 children and enhancing digital literacy.

3. Bridge the digital divide:

Through sustainable EdTech solutions, education can be made accessible to all. Through offline-enabled platforms and device-based learning, students can access learning modules effectively. Through technological intervention, content can be translated, localised, and necessary support can be provided in regional languages.

In the Kalahandi district of Orissa, Smile Foundation upgraded schools through solar power, smart boards, and e-platforms. This was a great initiative to go beyond infrastructure gaps, integrate digital learning, and provide an opportunity for evening classes despite power outages.

4. Curriculum aligned to technology:

By seamlessly integrating technology into the curriculum rather than having it as an external aid or tool to support education, schools and colleges can have technology woven into the teaching methodologies. For example, by replacing physical laboratories with virtual simulations, schools can contribute to a reduction in chemical waste and disposable materials. Further, using technology to impart the concepts of sustainability, through the simulations of AR & VR, can encourage environmental awareness in a smarter way.

By long-term partnerships with green tech service providers, institutions can look at continuous support and maintenance, which can greatly reduce waste, extend the equipment warranty, optimise the energy use, strengthen operational resilience, and support long-term sustainable goals.

Key statistics

Through its Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) program, UNESCO is advocating carbon-neutral education system by 2030. This goes out as a strong appeal to nations to promptly invest in sustainable EdTech solutions.

The Global EdTech sector is expected to grow from USD 214.73 billion in 2025 to USD 445.94 billion by 2029, with the Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework driving innovative, sustainable solutions.

The Indian EdTech market is projected to reach USD 29 billion by 2030, as against its value of USD 7.5 billion in 2025.

Conclusion

Although countries like India could have infrastructure and awareness challenges, and digital inequality, it is important to overcome these challenges and look at the bigger picture of green transformation, where the future of education lies.