IT outsourcing can help firms to be more energy efficient, according to the latest report.

Gartner’s new report has identified six ways in which companies can modify their processes to diminish the damaging effects on the environment, as well as to help them become more efficient.

The research advises firms to outsourcing aspects of their content management needs if there are areas where they do not have particular expertise.

“Outsourcers can be more efficient and save energy because they’ve maximised their infrastructure and can offer economies and knowledge,” the report says.

Mark Gilbert, vice president of research at Gartner, adds that organisations are beginning to realise that changing from paper to electronic processes has benefits in terms of efficiency, energy savings and reduction in costs.

This week, James Murray, editor of BusinessGreen.com, said software providers see green issues as a key element of product specifications, as consumers are looking for eco-friendly products to save money and help the environment.