[INFORMATIVE] Eco-Friendly Computing Practices

Eco-Friendly Computing Practices

By: Alexandros Theodossis

The Environmental Impact of Computers/Devices
Since the genesis of technology and innovation, computers and technology have become more advanced. For example, Apple and Samsung are continuously releasing new iPads, Galaxies, Computers, and other technology associated with such devices. Almost every single year, Apple or Samsung releases a new version of a device, such as the progression of the iPhone, this year, releasing the iPhone 15, next year, possibly releasing the iPhone 16, and repeating this cycle of releasing devices, where people either trade in their old devices for, or recycle their own devices. More specifically, computers require manufacturing and parts to build such devices as batteries, glass, metal, etc. The production of computers or any technological device requires various raw materials like gold, silver, and rare earth elements. Mining these materials to manufacture computers can lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution. This process often involves land disruption and can have horrid effects on local ecosystems. Additionally, manufacturing processes are energy-intensive: producing a single desktop computer can consume as much energy as running a computer for several years! Such energy often comes in the form of fossil fuels, ultimately contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Some manufacturers, nonetheless, make efforts to reduce energy consumption, such as using renewable energy sources and increasing energy efficiency, such as shutting off the lights when the manufacturing line is not in use. To add to energy consumption, the production of electronic components typically involves hazardous chemicals like solvents. Such chemicals can pose health risks to workers and local communities if chemical runoff is present, which leaks into local water supplies. Lastly, the manufacturing process generates an unimaginable amount of waste, which includes scrap materials and explosive materials. Technology companies that do not prioritize properly disposing of such materials risk endangering an environmental disaster.

What is Eco-Friendly Computing?
Eco-friendly computing, also known as green computing, refers to the process of designing, manufacturing, using, and disposing of computers and devices in a way that reduces the probability of detrimental environmental impact. Such practices involve using energy-efficient hardware and software, sourcing materials sustainably, and reducing electronic waste through means of recycling. For example, a computer science teacher prompts all students to completely shut off their computers when school is over. If every single institution/school practiced green computing, the effects of devices like computers on the environment wouldn’t be as detrimental as it is currently.

Why is Green Computing Important?
Green computing is important because it helps reduce the environmental impacts of the growing technology industry. Ultimately, by promoting energy efficiency, reducing electronic waste, and even lobbying for the use of renewable energy sources, green computing can conserve natural resources, and even reduce carbon footprints. This is very important in the fight against climate change, as doing this helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce pollution. Also, enacting sustainable computing practices can lead to cost savings for businesses, which is a positive outcome from such policies. Overall, green computing supports a sustainable future, where the effects of climate change won’t be too bad.

How Can You Follow Green Computing Practices?
You can follow green computing practices by simply turning all electronic devices off when you sleep, or making sure to shut off all computers in an office that aren’t being used. More specifically, when selecting hardware components, it's smart to prioritize devices that carry energy-efficient certifications, such as stickers that indicate this on the box, like the Energy Star Rating. By purchasing devices that hold such a rating, you can contribute to green computing every time you purchase a computer or device. Another way that you can practice green computing is power management. More specifically, implementing efficient power management practices can lead to massive reductions in energy consumption, contributing to environmental sustainability. To enact energy efficient practices, consider the use of smart power strips, which cut off power to monitors, printers, and chargers when they are not in use, as opposed to making sure to remember to turn off all devices, this can do this automatically. If you live in a house, consider investing in renewable energy, such as solar panels. Utilizing solar energy can generate clean energy that can power your home for days! There are a lot of incentives for solar panel installation, which can make it very affordable. Moreover, supporting E-Waste recycling can vastly benefit the environment. One approach is donating old electronics to schools, or organizations that can put them to good use. Not only does this extend the lifespan, but also helps bridge the digital divide for those who are in need. Alternatively, recycling old devices through e-waste recycling programs is environmentally sustainable. Plenty of electronic manufacturers provide take-back programs, such as Apple offering to recycle a person’s device if they decide to trade in their old phone for a new one.


Works Cited:
Agrawal, Aniket. 10 Green Computing Examples + Effective Tips to Implement It. 2 Feb. 2024, thefuturisticminds.com/green-computing-examples/.Accessed 11 August. 2024.

Tasneem, Samira. “Five Ways to Green Your PC: Your Gateway to Sustainable Computing.” GreenCitizen, 18 Oct. 2023, greencitizen.com/blog/five-ways-to-green-your-pc/. Accessed 12 Aug. 2024. Accessed 11 August. 2024.

‌Panel®, Expert. “Council Post: 15 “Green” Tech Innovations and Practices That Can Help Protect the Environment.” Forbes, 19 July 2022, www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/07/19/15-green-tech-innovations-and-practices-that-can-help-protect-the-environment/.Accessed 11 August. 2024.

Agrawal, Aniket. What Is Green Computing? Discover Benefits, Examples & More. 28 Jan. 2024, thefuturisticminds.com/green-computing/.Accessed 11 August. 2024.‌7 Green Computing Best Practices - InApp. 29 Sept. 2023, inapp.com/blog/7-green-computing-best-practices/. Accessed 11 August. 2024.