Green Computing and Sustaining Networks
As we celebrated Earth Day on April 22 this year, we were reminded of the global call to action for environmental responsibility. It is essential to reflect on the impact of network computing on our planet and the strides being made toward a greener future. By working towards this goal, we can ensure the benefits of green computing or the practice of using computers and technology in eco-friendly ways. It’s time to commit to environmental stewardship and promote the well-being of our planet.
In the realm of data centers and network infrastructure, the need for sustainability is more pressing than ever. This article explores key environmental concerns in network computing and highlights initiatives and resources, including Vertiv’s commitment to environmental governance.
Network Computing’s Call to Action
The surge in digital transformation and the ever-expanding network landscape has led to increased energy consumption and electronic waste. The carbon footprint of data centers, powered by network computing, is a growing concern.
As data centers and network systems proliferate, their energy consumption and electronic waste can contribute significantly to environmental degradation. Earth Day poses the perfect opportunity to address these environmental challenges and seek sustainable solutions.
Vertiv has taken strides to minimize environmental impact while promoting social responsibility through green computing. Green computing is the practice of maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing environmental impact in the ways computer chips, systems, and software are designed and used. By aligning corporate strategies with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, Vertiv is committed to not only meeting the needs of the present but also safeguarding the environment for future generations. Read Vertiv’s white paper on environmental, social, and governance to explore our comprehensive approach.
Maximizing Sustainability with Hybrid EcoSystems: An Intelligent Power Management System
One notable initiative from Vertiv is the exploration of hybrid ecosystems. Hybrid systems aim to strike a balance between sustainability and reliability by leveraging technology to optimize energy consumption. This innovative approach showcases the potential for technology to be a driving force behind environmental solutions rather than a contributor. This challenges the notion that increased connectivity must come at the expense of our planet. To learn more about the benefits of intelligent Power Management Systems, visit Vertiv’s blog.
Strategic Approaches for Green Computing
More and more efforts are being made to challenge growing environmental concerns. Here are a few simple steps to implement green computing in your business.
1. Energy Efficiency
Implement energy-efficient technologies and practices that can significantly reduce the power consumption of network infrastructure. There are a variety of practices and systems at our disposal to aid in this effort. AI monitoring tools for example are becoming increasingly useful. By collecting and analyzing a computer system’s data, AI can automatically adjust the heating, cooling, and power of the center. This ensures the environment of the data center is always running smoothly and isn’t wasting any energy.
Another option is to replace aging rack-based UPS’s with newer models that are rightsized to the load. Figuring load and getting an accurate load percentage will help you know what models will be the most efficient. Older UPS’s can tend to be significantly less efficient, particularly at lower loads.
2. Renewable Energy Integration
Transitioning toward renewable energy sources helps minimize the carbon footprint associated with powering data centers. The best way for data centers to aid green computing is for them to be designed with energy conservation in mind. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are five main parts of a data center that can be significantly improved by focusing on energy efficiency: IT systems, environmental conditions, air management, cooling systems, and electrical systems. Alternative energy sources are out there and can be easily accessible. From wind to hydroelectric power to geothermal cooling, there are several environmentally friendly ways to power a data center.
3. Lifecycle Management
Proper disposal and recycling of electronic waste reduces the environmental impact of network computing hardware. Electronic waste should never just be thrown out. Depending on the equipment it could contain sensitive information. Not to mention the harmful substances used in some technology are more likely to contaminate the environment and people around the area of a dump site. This is why all electronic waste should be disposed of carefully and according to federal, state, and local regulations.
The best way to prevent harmful electronic waste however is to try and prolong the equipment’s life. Powering down equipment when not in use and keeping up with updates and regular maintenance are just a few ways to properly care for your technology. At Air and Power Solutions, we offer performance optimization services and power maintenance services that can help identify areas for improvement. These types of proactive measures ensure that equipment lasts longer and postpones the need for disposal and the purchase of a new machine with its own carbon footprint.
4. Intelligent Resource Allocation
Utilizing intelligent systems for resource allocation can improve optimal performance while minimizing energy consumption. One efficient way to do this is by using computer virtualization, which involves a system administrator looking at the current systems and how they operate. Then the administrator should see if any systems could be combined into virtual machines on one powerful system. This eliminates the need for certain physical machines as their systems have been virtually combined. With fewer machines, there is less power and cooling usage.
Green computing emphasizes recycling to protect the environment. Looking at your data center and determining where there is room for reorganization is key to creating a sustainable network.
Orientation of equipment also makes a difference. If possible, orient all equipment in a data center so that it is blowing air in the same direction. Cold air from an air conditioner needs to be directed at the front of the networking equipment. Airflow has a tremendous impact on efficiency and resource management.
Paving the Way for a Greener Network Future
The relationship between technological innovation and environmental consciousness is imperative. Vertiv’s commitment to environmental governance exemplifies a proactive approach to green computing. Knowing the environmental dangers associated with network computing is the first step in learning how to help. Adopting a hybrid ecosystem, efficiently using renewable energy, and learning how to safely dispose of old electronics are all great places to start. By embracing eco-friendly practices and intelligent solutions, the industry can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
At Air and Power Solutions, we look forward to working with our partners to continue to provide the best knowledge, products, and services to keep your business running efficiently and sustainably. Contact us today to get started.