No. 46: Use a carbon neutral video conferencing service
No. 46: Use a carbon neutral video conferencing service
Number 46
Using a carbon-neutral video conferencing service in school provides significant environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as well as financial benefits through reduced travel costs. It can also promote inclusivity and enhance educational opportunities for students.
Learn why you should do this:
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we interact with each other, including the way we conduct meetings and classes. With the increasing need for virtual communication, video conferencing has become an essential tool in schools. However, with the rise in the use of video conferencing, there is also a rise in carbon emissions due to the energy consumption associated with it. To combat this, schools can switch to a carbon neutral video conferencing service, which can have both environmental and financial benefits.
One of the primary benefits of using a carbon neutral video conferencing service is the reduction in carbon emissions. A study by the Carbon Trust found that a 60-minute video call produces approximately 150-1,000 grams of carbon dioxide emissions, depending on the quality of the call and the device used. By switching to a carbon neutral video conferencing service, schools can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to the fight against climate change.
In addition to the environmental benefits, using a carbon neutral video conferencing service can also have financial benefits for schools. By reducing energy consumption, schools can save on electricity bills, leading to cost savings in the long run. For example, Zoom, a popular video conferencing platform, claims that their Zoom Rooms can save up to 80% on energy costs compared to traditional video conferencing systems.
Schools can also take additional steps to further reduce their carbon footprint when using video conferencing services. For example, they can encourage participants to turn off their cameras and mute their microphones when not speaking to reduce energy consumption. They can also schedule meetings during off-peak hours to reduce the strain on the power grid during peak hours.
In conclusion, the use of video conferencing services in schools is on the rise, and with it comes an increase in carbon emissions. However, by switching to a carbon neutral video conferencing service, schools can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while also enjoying financial benefits. The availability of several carbon neutral video conferencing services means that schools have a range of options to choose from. Schools can also take additional steps to further reduce their carbon footprint, making video conferencing a sustainable and eco-friendly option for communication.
Sources:
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CDP. (2018). Global environmental disclosure system 2018. Retrieved from https://6fefcbb86e61af1b2fc4-c70d8ead6ced550b4d987d7c03fcdd1d.ssl.cf3.rackcdn.com/cms/reports/documents/000/003/791/original/CDP-Europe-2050-A-Climate-Reality-Check.pdf?1555684503
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Energy Star. (n.d.). Efficient computer power supplies. Retrieved from https://www.energystar.gov/products/low_carbon_it_campaign/efficient_computer_power_supplies
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Greenpeace. (2017). Clicking Clean Virginia: The Dirty Energy Powering Data Centers in the Commonwealth. Retrieved from https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Clicking-Clean-Virginia-Report.pdf
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Lechner, M. D., & Leithner, R. (2019). Energy efficiency potentials in videoconferencing. Journal of Cleaner Production, 223, 873-881.
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The Climate Group. (2018). How to get smart on energy use in schools. Retrieved from https://www.theclimategroup.org/sites/default/files/Smart%20Energy%20for%20Schools%20%E2%80%93%20Energy%20Smart%20Communities.pdf
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator
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