Smartphones are ubiquitous devices that connect us to the world and provide us with various functions and services. However, they also consume a lot of energy and generate a lot of electronic waste. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global smartphone market size was valued at USD 1.2 trillion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.7% from 2021 to 2028¹. By 2028, there will be about seven billion smartphones in use worldwide.
This massive demand for smartphones poses a challenge for data center sustainability, as data centers are responsible for powering and cooling these devices remotely. Data centers use various sources of energy, such as fossil fuels, renewable energy, or hybrid systems, to meet the power needs of their servers and other equipment. However, these sources have different environmental impacts and costs. For example, fossil fuels contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, while renewable energy sources depend on weather conditions and availability.
According to a study by McKinsey & Company, data centers accounted for about 1% of global electricity consumption in 2019⁴. However, this share could increase significantly as more devices are connected to the internet and require data center services. The study estimates that by 2030, data centers could consume up to 5% of global electricity demand⁴. This would have implications for data center sustainability, as it would require more efficient technologies and practices to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint.
Some of the possible solutions for improving data center sustainability include:
- Using renewable energy sources or carbon offsets to power data centers
- Implementing energy-efficient cooling systems or heat recovery techniques
- Optimizing server utilization or workload management
- Adopting green IT policies or standards
- Recycling or reusing electronic waste
By adopting these solutions, data center operators can not only reduce their environmental impact but also save costs and improve performance. Moreover, they can also enhance their reputation and customer loyalty by demonstrating their commitment to sustainability.
Data center sustainability is not only a technical challenge but also a strategic opportunity for smartphone manufacturers and service providers. By collaborating with data center operators and stakeholders, they can create innovative solutions that benefit both parties and society at large.
