As the world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, it is essential to address the environmental impact of our digital footprint. Computers, servers and datacenters are everywhere and growing in importance to keep our everyday services such as the internet itself running, but we can’t trade the real world by the virtual one. Do IT-related devices influenciate in global warming? How much waste do they generate? And what can be done about those?
In this article, I’ll address what Green Computing is, its origins, the impact of certain electronics in the environment and possible ways that enterprises, governments and every day people can help.
What is Green Computing?
Green computing refers to the practice of utilizing IT resources and infrastructure in a way that minimizes environmental impact. It involves designing, manufacturing, using, and disposing of computers, servers, and other IT equipment in an energy-efficient and environmentally responsible manner. The aim of green computing is to reduce carbon emissions, energy consumption, electronic waste, and other forms of pollution associated with the IT industry.
its origin date back to 1992, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency introduced Energy Star, a voluntary program aimed at encouraging and acknowledging energy-efficient performance in various technologies, including monitors and climate control equipment. As a result, the adoption of sleep mode in consumer electronics became widespread. Around the same time, TCO Development, a Swedish organization, launched the TCO Certified program, which initially focused on minimizing magnetic and electrical emissions from CRT-based computer displays. Over time, this program expanded to incorporate additional criteria such as energy consumption, ergonomics, and the use of hazardous materials in construction.
The Impact of Datacenters and E-waste
The IT industry, with its data centers, computers and other machinery, contributes to a substantial amount of electricity consumption worldwide and, by extent, air pollution(estimated to be up to 4% of the global green house gas emission). This is because the majority of datacenters and IT-related devices are deployed in the northern hemisphere, where the primary way of generating electricity still is coal and natural gas burning.
Alongside that, the industry has moved from making durable, reliable electronics to fast-changing, fragile, programmed to die ones, and those are difficult to properly dispose of. Electronic devices contain various toxic and hazardous materials, including lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants. Improper disposal methods, such as landfilling or incineration, can lead to the release of these harmful substances into the environment, polluting soil, water, and air.
To make matters worse, according to statistics, out of the 57.6Mt of e-waste generated world wide in 2022, only 9.29Mt was recycled properly. That represents just 16% of the total value which varies a lot depending on where you live(Europe recycled 42.5% of their e-waste, while North and South America recycled 9.4%, and Africa did just shy of 1%). Developed countries have also been found guilty of exporting much of it to developing countries, which have worse structure to deal with the problem, in order to get rid of it
Solutions for a greener future
To address the complexities of these issues, several effective approaches can be employed.
To tackle the energy usage problem associated with small servers and computers, virtualization emerges as a straightforward solution. By merging multiple less powerful machines onto a single high-end machine, energy consumption can be significantly reduced compared to using separate individual computers. This not only decreases power consumption but also minimizes the number of components used and waste generated when they eventually become obsolete. This approach is particularly beneficial for shared living spaces, offices, and internet cafes.
When it comes to large servers, the cloud provides a compelling answer. Similar to virtualization, the cloud enables the renting of resources from large-scale data centers, leading to reduced pollution associated with electricity usage. Additionally, for small and medium-sized businesses, utilizing the cloud often proves more cost-effective than purchasing and maintaining individual equipment, while also reducing the need for extensive engineering expertise.
And obviously, governments hold the key to fixing the issue. They can implement and enforce regulations that promote responsible disposal and recycling of electronic waste. By mandating proper e-waste management practices and encouraging the establishment of recycling facilities, governments can ensure that hazardous materials are safely handled and valuable resources are recovered. Additionally, governments can incentivize the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and practices in data centers by providing tax incentives or subsidies. Furthermore, governments can invest in research and development initiatives that focus on green computing technologies, encouraging innovation and the development of energy-efficient solutions.
There are also extra options, like:
- Using Solar Panels. They can reduce both a house’s electrical bill and a company’s, requiring little to no maintenance for a decade and costing much less than they used to.
- Recycling whenever possible. Something both companies and people can do.
- Vote for politicians who have plans to help nature and positive environmental goals. Choosing the right candidate makes all the difference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, green computing holds tremendous importance in today’s technology-driven world. The impact of servers and computers on global warming and the environment cannot be ignored. The IT industry, with its energy consumption and e-waste generation, contributes significantly to carbon emissions and pollution. However, not all hope is lost.
As we move forward, it is crucial for businesses, individuals, and governments to prioritize green computing practices. By embracing energy efficiency, promoting recycling, and adopting sustainable solutions, we can collectively work towards a greener and more sustainable future. The transition to a more environmentally conscious IT industry not only benefits the planet but also paves the way for innovation, economic growth, and a healthier environment for generations to come.
Read more: Electricity In the U.S., What is Green Computing, Green Computing
