Revealed: the environmental impact of Google searches
Performing two Google searches from a desktop computer can generate about the same amount of carbon dioxide as boiling a kettle for a cup of tea, according to new research.
While millions of people tap into Google without considering the environment, a typical search generates about 7g of CO2 Boiling a kettle generates about 15g. “Google operates huge data centres around the world that consume a great deal of power,” said Alex Wissner-Gross, a Harvard University physicist whose research on the environmental impact of computing is due out soon. “A Google search has a definite environmental impact.”
I knew it. All along, it’s been those Volvo driving, brie eating, global warming googlers who’ve been killing us. File this in the “counter intuitive” knowledge department. The article goes on to say world wide internet usage is worse than the airline industry for global CO2.
And we already knew the Prius is worse for the environment than the Hummer! So the next time you see some holier-than-thou type googling for the lowest price gas station from his guilt-laden Prius on his cell phone (doubtless killing birds with extra radiation emissions), just drive over him with your Hummer. And smile while you’re doing it: according to 1 Peter 4:8 , “Love covers a multitude of sins,” and you KNOW you love your Hummer.
January 15th, 2009 10:45 am
That’s really interesting. I wonder what other things that we now think are environmentally friendly will turn out be bad for the earth. I think this goes to show you that it’s best not to be too dogmatic about the “clean air” vehicle you may or may not drive, because the next study could show you to be the worst polluter of them all!
I have a few friends with Prius’s. Most are pretty civil about their purchases and don’t come across as pushy with their ‘eco-sensitive’ ways, but every once in a while I catch them in a holier-than-thou moment. I am resisting the urge to send them the Prius/Hummer link…
January 15th, 2009 1:55 pm
Yes! Things are working out perfectly, as I begin production on my design for a car that is powered by music! It’s all based on this little mechanical flower I saw when I was a kid, that danced when I clapped.
January 15th, 2009 7:51 pm
I have one of those silly flowers. I can’t wait for your car. I have always known that the answer to all of life’s problems would be answered by musicians.