By Scott Abner
The so-called green revolution is in full swing, with more investment and attention being focused in this direction than ever before. It comes off the back of a global urgency to address climate change through lowered carbon footprints, plus attention on other environmental issues experienced across the world, including air and sea pollution.
Recently, energy efficient computing and battery technology in the UK has made huge strides in this space. The result is that both businesses and individuals can benefit, in the knowledge that their equipment is causing less harm to the planet.
Here’s what you need to know about how this technology has advanced in recent years .
Energy-Efficient Computing
Recent developments in energy-efficient computing technology include the shift to low-power processors, which use less power and can run faster. Within this, SATA cables are frequently used to supply power so that additional hard drive power cables aren’t necessary.
Other examples include thermal management systems and progression in the realm of hardware and software optimisation, so that machines can run more effectively.
In short, energy-saving computing can reduce the amount of power needed, which can prolong the lives of machines. It can also aid battery life and reduce ongoing costs both in personal and business contexts. Getting more out of our machinery, without compromising the equipment or the environment, is key to the green technology movement.
Sustainable Battery Solutions
Regarding batteries, some of the latest innovations focus on improving energy storage capacity, as well as boosting efficiency.
Some recent advancements include:
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Solid-state batteries
- Graphene-based batteries
- Sodium-ion batteries
On top of this, there are broader efforts to improve recycling and reduce the amount of waste generated. The circular economy is something that is hugely applicable in this area, where wasteful, linear economy models are overturned with models centred around reusing and recycling equipment.
Impact on Consumer Electronics
These newer methods can impact consumer electronics is several ways.
The truth is that people are becoming more aware of making better decisions on behalf of the environment. Therefore, integrating energy-efficiency into your designs is a smart idea to not only improve products, but also to tap into these emerging trends.
When purchasing consumer electronics such as laptops, smartphone and more, this will be in the back of many individuals’ minds. This in turn should spur on manufacturers to make moves in this field.
Applications in Business and Industry
Not only do more sustainable and energy-efficient gadgets appeal to a wider customer base, but they can also benefit from other elements. For example, operating costs can be lowered and the likelihood of meeting internal or external sustainability targets will increase.
There are also trends around energy storage solutions for renewable energy systems. The same applies to electric vehicles and grid-scale storage applications.
Do you feel confident in commercial moves towards greener ways of living?
