Green Computing

by Julie Peller Ph.D

Green Junction

                There is concern that the energy needed for advanced data processing (i.e., AI, cryptocurrency) may slow the clean energy transition since plans for data centers are rising significantly. In an article earlier this year by Shar Narasimhan, an expert on AI and data centers, “If data centers are using carbon-based energy, it’s impossible for enterprises to innovate using AI while controlling greenhouse gas emissions and meeting sustainability commitments.” However, numerous experts explain that there are a number of ways to reduce these energy requirements. 

The EPA’s Energy Star website lists ways to “increase the sustainability of cryptocurrency.” These include the use of more energy efficient computer servers and hardware. Another suggestion is implementing different cryptocurrency algorithms that require less computing power. The US Department of Energy posted a 48-page guideline this past summer on best practices for data center design. The general recommendations are 1) to make all systems as energy efficient as possible, 2) to reuse the heat generated by the equipment, 3) to use dry coolers as much as possible to reduce water requirements and 4) to run data centers with renewable energy. 

Consumers’ desire for computing energy contributes to the increasing energy demand. MIT’s news website suggests that we pay attention to how much computing energy we use, similar to the carbon emission estimates for plane flights made available by most airlines. “A similar kind of transparency doesn’t yet exist for the computing industry, despite its carbon emissions exceeding those of the entire airline industry.” MIT’s Lincoln Laboratory Computing Center is advancing green computing. The US Air Force has partnered with them to reduce energy at their numerous data centers.        Computer use is similar to other consumptions of resources. Computations require energy and minerals at a time when it is imperative to reduce carbon emissions and protect earth’s resources.  The Catholic church is in the midst of the Season of Creation, “a time to reflect on our relationship with the environment — not just “distant” nature, but, crucially, the place where we live — and the ways in which our lifestyles and decisions as a society can endanger both the natural world and those inhabiting it.” (Brian Roewe, NCR Environmental Correspondent)

Julie Peller, Ph.D., is an environmental chemist (Professor of Chemistry at Valparaiso University ). She has been writing a weekly column called The Green Junction for the past seven years and is helping to move the call of Laudato Si to action forward. Her Research Interests are advanced oxidation for aqueous solutions, water quality analyses, emerging contaminants, air quality analyses, Lake Michigan shoreline challenges (Cladophora, water, and sediment contaminants), and student and citizen participation in environmental work.