Mr Shane Herath

I joined the University of Exeter in 2023. My interests centre on IT sustainability, responsible innovation, and the environmental impact of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. I am passionate about exploring how technology can be harnessed to create positive societal impact while reducing its environmental footprint. Before joining the University, I spent nearly twenty years working in the technology sector across the UK, USA, EMEA, and APAC.

I graduated from the University of Hertfordshire with a degree in Computer Science and later completed a Graduate Diploma in Law (LLB equivalent) at BPP University. I also hold a Master's Certificate in IT Project & Program Management from George Washington University, USA, and am a Certified ScrumMaster® (CSM). My multidisciplinary background has enabled me to combine technical, legal, and business perspectives when tackling sustainability challenges.

Alongside my work at the University, I serve as Chair of the Eco-Friendly Web Alliance, where I work with others to promote more sustainable web development and reduce the environmental impact of digital technologies. I have contributed to Computer Weekly's IT Sustainability Think Tank since its launch in 2022 and regularly write about AI's environmental impact, digital sustainability, and data centres. I am also a columnist for The Scotsman, where I write about technology, sustainability, and responsible innovation.

As an Invited Expert, I contributed to the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Web Sustainability Guidelines (WSG) — the first globally recognised framework for web sustainability — which helps organisations make their web products and services more sustainable through a structured approach similar to WCAG for accessibility. I also serve as a judge for the SME National Business Awards, supporting the recognition of organisations demonstrating excellence in sustainable business practices.

I firmly believe that technology should be a force for good. My aim is to advocate for responsible innovation that delivers meaningful benefits for society while ensuring sustainability remains central to technological progress.