Green computing is the new buzzword today. Its origin dates back to 1992 when EPA launched in Energy Star labels. Over the years the term has grown in importance and assumed great significance. The recent news item linking Google search to CO2 emissions caused by single query has further brought this topic in to prominence.

The term Green Computing involves study and practice of using computing resources efficiently. The broad goals in any Green Computing initiative are

• maximization of energy efficiency

• emphasize on recyclability and biodegradability

• reduce hazardous materials

There can be many approaches which can be employed for achieving these goals. And we might have come face to face with many of them in our day to day experiences. Any approach or initiative which leads to better energy efficiency and fulfills any of the objectives which are associated with Green Computing, is worth emulating.

Approaches:

• Better coding and algorithms: Better coding and use of algorithms which puts least load on server in terms of processing etc, can results in lots savings in energy. For better understanding, if coding has been done in a way which involves optimum usages of caching, validations, cookies etc putting lesser strain on server and in addition algorithms are smartly written using fewer lines of code to perform the same logic, then server is being used efficiently.

  [ad#ad-468-15]

• Virtualization: System administration could combine several logical computer systems on one physical hardware system which results in lesser strain on computer systems. INTEL and AMD both have built up virtualization to their x86 chips.

• Terminal services: In terminal services, all computing is done at server level and connecting devices are thin clients, utilizing only 1/8^th of the total power which otherwise would have been required in normal desktops.

• Power management: This approach involves, setting preset time  in computers and their components(hard drives, system RAMs) after which they are turned off. Windows Vista has this feature where Power management features can be activated from central administration levels. Central Power management was an issue with earlier versions of Windows, but Vista has none of such problems.

Green computing is the need of the hour. We will have to resort to every possible means to optimize our operations.

May also like to read:

Cloudo – Have a feel of cloud computing