As a leader in the fast-evolving data center industry, EdgeConneX is known for delivering customized, high-performance digital infrastructure solutions worldwide. With over 80 data centers built and in development across 50 markets on four continents, we are 
committed to technological excellence and sustainability. Achieving Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWTL) status by 2030 is critical to our environmental responsibility mission. Earlier this year, we reached a significant milestone towards this goal with the successful ZWTL validation of our Amsterdam data center.
EdgeConneX ambitious goal to achieve ZWTL across our portfolio requires rigorous validation to demonstrate genuine progress to stakeholders. Navigating these complexities is challenging and involves internal commitment and external validation, which led us to partner with UL Solutions, a global leader in safety science and environmental sustainability.
A Partnership for Progress
The collaboration with UL Solutions was instrumental in our journey towards ZWTL validation. Known for their robust verification processes, UL Solutions provided the expertise and credibility needed to guide EdgeConneX through the rigorous validation requirements. Their proven track record was invaluable to us in validating our data centers, demonstrating our holistic commitment to zero waste.
The Road to Validation
The validation process began with a comprehensive evaluation of EdgeConneX waste management practices. This included an in-depth assessment of the waste generated by operational activities such as emergency backup generator maintenance.
The validation process took approximately four months, during which UL Solutions worked closely with our team. This included onsite operations managers, technicians, and vendors, who were crucial in gathering the necessary information for the desktop review and onsite audit. As specified by UL 2799, the process required at least 90% waste diversion through methods other than waste-to-energy to achieve the ZWTL designation.
A Milestone Achieved
The successful ZWTL validation at our Amsterdam data center marked a significant achievement for EdgeConneX. This milestone underscored our team’s dedication to sustainability and further positions the company as a leader in environmental stewardship within the data center industry. The validation has already yielded tangible benefits, such as streamlined recycling processes that reduce environmental impact and minimize the need for landfill space.
The Path Forward
EdgeConneX commitment to sustainability extends beyond individual achievements. We also support community health and environmental well-being by minimizing waste and preserving air quality.
As EdgeConneX expands our global footprint, the lessons learned from this validation will streamline future ZWTL initiatives across our data center portfolio. The partnership with UL Solutions and the successful validation of the Amsterdam facilities have laid a strong foundation for our ongoing sustainability journey, reinforcing our role as a pioneer in combining technological innovation with environmental responsibility.
Stay tuned for additional ZWTL and Waste Diversion validations at additional EdgeConneX facilities globally!
Learn more in this UL Case Study: EdgeConneX and UL Solutions: Working Together in Promoting Sustainability.