Greener computing does not simply mean minimising energy consumption of the PC during its operational life, but also during its full lifecycle from “cradle to grave”. It also means minimising material throughput i.e. recycling and re-using, and disposing of hazardous e-waste responsibly. So while much of this blog and a big part of our sustainable IT campaign is focused on energy efficiency in operations and e-waste, it is also important to review our PC procurement policies. (more…)
Archive for April, 2009
Buying the right, green PC
Wednesday, April 15th, 2009Energy meters now running in the Data Centre
Tuesday, April 14th, 2009Our IP energy meters are up and running in the University data centre, thanks to the efforts of Conrad Bright and Christiaan Brand. We will now watch the results and learn about the DC’s consumption. The one meter measures total supply to the DC, while the other measures output from the UPSs (i.e. power to computing equipment). The meters started logging at around midnight. The night was cool and the servers not that busy, yet it seems that PUE was in the range 2 to 2.2 (roughly). This means that for every watt going to the computers, another is going to the aircons. It will be interesting to see how it changes as the day heats up.
Next steps are to a) provide a dashboard on this blog and b) correlate readings with local weather data.
Video: Adobe’s green HQ
Thursday, April 9th, 2009Greenmonk reports that Adobe’s HQ in San Jose, California, has achieved triple platinum certification in LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Watch the fascinating video:
Recycling cellphones
Friday, April 3rd, 2009Around 44% of old cellphones are lying around unused. Between 65% and 80% of the material content of a cellphone can be recycled or re-used… Now you are able to deposit old cellphones at cellphone outlets in South Africa for recycling… (more…)