A recent survey has shown that 68 per cent of UK business state that they recognise the green benefits of virtualisation initiatives.

The poll was conducted by NetBenefits and showed that 30 per cent of respondents are already incorporating virtualisation into their IT as part of future strategy.

Despite acknowledging the technology's benefits, some 67 per cent are not entirely familiar with the concept.

Chief operating officer at NetBenefit Jonathon Robinson said: "This poll has demonstrated the rising interest in virtualisation which we believe people will be hearing a lot more about over the next 12-18 months."

Mr Robinson also pointed out that the technology enables the stacking of numerous virtual servers, which reduces the demand for power and is therefore beneficial to the environment.

However, he added that security was a primary concern for many of those surveyed, adding that web hosts will need to demonstrate the ability to provide secure business solutions.

In April, Leeds NHS Trust Foundation announced that it is implementing a virtualised disaster recovery and business continuity structure.