The Impact of Digital Technologies on Carbon Emissions and the Struggle to Reduce

Today, digital technologies are widely used in every aspect of our lives, from communication to entertainment, from business to personal use. However, along with the use of these technologies, environmental issues such as increased energy demand and management of electronic waste have emerged. The impact of digital technologies on carbon emissions has become an important issue for sustainability. It is estimated that digital products account for 3.6% of the world's carbon emissions. This rate is similar to global maritime transportation.

Data Centers and Energy Consumption

The largest carbon footprint of digital technologies is associated with the energy consumption of data centers. Data centers perform many important tasks such as managing internet traffic, providing cloud storage services, hosting online applications, and conducting big data analysis. However, these activities require large amounts of electrical energy, which can increase carbon emissions. Studies in this regard have revealed, for example, that watching a 1-hour video of 5 GB size causes a carbon footprint of 312 grams. In another study, the carbon emissions of search engines were examined. It was calculated that a person who makes 50 searches per day emits 26 kg of carbon footprint annually, which is equivalent to a 1500 km car journey. Another sector contributing to carbon emissions is cryptocurrency mining. Mining activities with high energy consumption generate a carbon footprint of 400 kg for 1 bitcoin. This number creates a carbon footprint equivalent to a flight from Istanbul to Beijing.

The production process of digital technologies also contributes to carbon emissions. Steps such as extraction, processing, processing at production facilities, and transportation of raw materials for the production of electronic devices can increase energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the management of electronic waste is an environmental issue, and these wastes need to be recycled properly.

Various solutions are available to reduce the impact of carbon emissions from digital technologies. Firstly, transitioning data centers and other digital infrastructures to renewable energy sources is important. Renewable energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy, and hydroelectric power can reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs. Additionally, efficiency solutions are important. Making cooling systems and servers more efficient in data centers can reduce energy consumption.

Finally, it is important for individuals and companies to adopt conscious consumption habits. Energy efficiency and environmental impact should be taken into account when purchasing, using, and renewing electronic devices. Additionally, the recycling and proper disposal of unused electronic devices are important. This can prevent electronic waste from harming the environment and prevent the waste of scarce resources.

In conclusion, the impact of digital technologies on carbon emissions is increasing, and urgent measures are needed for sustainability. Solutions such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, adopting conscious consumption habits, and properly managing electronic waste can make progress in this area. Reducing the environmental impact of digital technologies is important for both the present and future generations.