A critical review of barriers to achieving net-zero emissions in the information technology-enabled services sector

Information Technology-Enabled Services (ITeS) have typically been viewed as producing less carbon emissions than sectors that are energy- and material-intensive. However, the rapid expansion of cloud computing, data centres, artificial intelligence, platform-based services, and globally distributed digital operations is increasing the sector’s electricity demand and associated greenhouse gas emissions. This systematic review synthesises 78 studies to identify the principal barriers that constrain the transition of the ITeS sector towards net-zero emissions. The review finds five recurring and interdependent barriers: the high energy intensity of digital infrastructure, dependence on carbon-intensive electricity grids, insufficient sector-specific carbon accounting and reporting, fragmented policy and regulatory incentives, and weak corporate commitment and stakeholder alignment. The analysis also highlights the importance of Scope 3 emissions, particularly those linked to ICT hardware, cloud services, semiconductor supply chains, telecommuting, and e-waste. In response, the review identifies key transition pathways, including energy-efficient infrastructure, renewable electricity procurement, carbon intelligence platforms, circular ICT practices, science-based target-setting, supplier engagement, and climate-smart digital infrastructure. By integrating these findings through a systems perspective, the study contributes a sector-specific understanding of how technical, organisational, policy, and governance barriers interact to delay decarbonisation. The review provides practical implications for ITeS organisations, policymakers, and researchers seeking to strengthen carbon accountability, prioritise high-impact interventions, and accelerate credible net-zero transitions in the digital services economy.