Starting in the Middle Ages there were many attempts to design a perpetual motion device, i.e. one that, once started, would continue operating without any further input of energy. A conservationists dream, but a pipe dream! The laws of thermodynamics have since shown it to be impossible.
Unavoidably every device we use requires energy input of one sort or another e.g. wind, sunlight, fossil fuel, electricity. To put it another way ‘You can’t get owt for nowt’. Something we need to remember when we use computers, smart phones, tablets or any internet device – what is called the digital economy. All require energy, much of it remote and unseen, adding to our carbon footprint. Even the shortest email.
It is true that with the use of the internet, communications using paper have greatly declined (good!): using digital devices and their internet and supporting systems now cause about 3.7% of all greenhouse gases, predicted to double over the next two years. Spam, emails, google searches, data centres, AI systems, streaming and the like all produce CO2. Individual video streaming in particular causes about 55g of CO2 per hour.
What can internet users do to minimise the problem?
- Switch off devices when not being used. Keep essential emails brief, avoid unnecessary ‘copy to’ and ‘reply all’ emails.
- Download audio files instead of streaming them.
- Only leave devices plugged in until they are charged.
- Dim your monitor brightness.
- Close tabs not being used.
- Avoid video calls (e.g. Zoom) if a phone call will do.
- Unsubscribe from unwanted newsletters.
… and the devices themselves? Their manufacture inevitably creates CO2 emissions. So use repaired or refurbished equipment where possible. Recycle responsibly.
In short, think CO2 before use! One discomforting thought. Do we know the size of the carbon footprint of just the Olympics digital economy?
July was a busy month. We cleared Himalayan Balsam from East Wantley Farm on 11th and from Cootham Woods on 18th. We carried out the annual tidying up of the Foxmead Court pond on 20th. The planned work party on the 25th was cancelled due to the weather. A group of members were invited to the Hurston Warren Open Day on 29th. Our work party on 3rd August was at Dyke Farm, raking hay and ragwort control.
The September Saturday work party meets on 7th at 10.00am on Chantry Hill to continue clearing the scrub to encourage the chalk grass for the benefit of threatened native butterflies.
We are always happy to welcome like minded people to join us. Sharing transport where possible. There is usually time to enjoy the coffee break and a chat.
For information about this and our other activities, or on becoming a member, or offering advice, please get in touch with Chairman Mick Denness on 01903 745971, or see our website. www.storringtonconservation.org.uk/.
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