[Article] Why Green Software Deserves a Spotlight at Climate Week

[NAMRATA-WOKE]

Article Details

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Proposer: Namrata Narayan | @NAMRATA-WOKE
Abstract: Suggestions for how climate activists in technology and ICT can incorporate green software into mainstream Climate Week discussions.
Why: Strategically aligns green software with high-profile climate discussions, raising awareness and credibility within the broader sustainability agenda, helping drive adoption and accelerating the transition to sustainable digital practices.
Audience: climate activists, sustainability advocates within the technology and ICT sectors, policymakers, corporate sustainability leaders
Timeline: September 2 - 9, 2024

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Author: @NAMRATA-WOKE
Other contributors: ED, WG Chairs and PLs
Article Link: (Link to the doc, must be in our official GSF drive)
Graphics Link: (Link to the design assets for this article, must be in our official GSF drive)
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[NAMRATA-WOKE]

@jawache I had this idea while you were on leave. Below is the outline. Is this an article we can work towards publishing in anticipation of Climate Week?

Introduction

• Discuss the significance of Climate Week in New York and the growing focus on climate action, particularly around decarbonization and sustainability.
• Highlight how digital sustainability, especially green software, often doesn’t get the attention it deserves at such events.
• Emphasize the importance of green software in the broader conversation on climate action.

Main Points

• Explain the global shift from a fossil fuel-based economy to a sustainable, low-carbon one. Discuss how green software is essential in reducing energy consumption and the carbon footprint of digital applications.

  • Supporting Data:
    • https://gesi.org/research/smarter2030-ict-solutions-for-21st-century-challenges
    • https://greensoftware.foundation/articles/celebrating-the-graduation-of-the-carbon-aware-sdk

• Introduce the SCI Specification and the Impact Framework as key tools for measuring and reducing software’s environmental impact.

• Emphasize how these tools can help companies assess and ensure compliance with emerging software-related ESG regulations.

• Discuss the projected increase in AI-related electricity consumption and its environmental implications. Mention advancements in energy-efficient chips from companies like NVIDIA and AMD.
  Highlight the need for leaner, more efficient software to fully leverage these hardware innovations.

Conclusion

• Encourage climate activists and leaders to champion green software at Climate Week.