Environmental Impact
Ongoing coverage on Environmental Impact.
Latest coverage
Saber CCO Tim Willits is still bullish on AI, but concerned about its environmental impact: 'Elon wants to put servers in space. That could be the answer, right?'
Saber Interactive CCO Tim Willits expressed optimism about AI in game development but voiced significant concerns regarding its environmental impact, citing data center energy consumption. He humorously suggested Elon Musk's idea of space-based servers as a potential solution. The discussion also touched upon Saber's use of AI in 'Rideshare Stimulator' and a past controversy involving a writer.
SpaceXAI pats itself on the back for removing temporary turbines in Memphis under agreed order over the next year: "We care deeply about being good neighbors"
xAI and SpaceX have agreed to remove 69 mobile turbines powering their Mississippi data centers over the next 11 months, following an agreement with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. The company plans to switch to power from a new 1.2 GW plant under construction and will invest in emission control technologies for the turbines. This action comes amid ongoing environmental and ethical disputes regarding the turbines and the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure.
How to fight a data center
This article provides guidance on how to oppose the construction or operation of data centers. It addresses concerns related to noise pollution, utility costs, and broader environmental impacts.
Into the Black
Air quality has significantly decreased across 20 US states due to smoke originating from Canadian wildfires. This environmental event has led to widespread air pollution affecting numerous regions.
Don't lose sleep over reports of 260 Starlink satellites deorbiting
SpaceX's deorbiting of Starlink satellites is not currently a cause for concern, but scientists are investigating the potential environmental consequences of frequent satellite deorbits. The article aims to reassure readers while acknowledging ongoing scientific inquiry into the matter.
Why I’m glad GTA 6 is killing physical media for gaming - Reader's Feature
This reader's feature argues that the end of physical media for games, exemplified by Grand Theft Auto 6's digital-only release, is a positive development. The author highlights environmental benefits, potential cost savings through digital distribution, and improved accessibility for smaller developers, while also addressing common concerns about digital ownership and game sharing.
Evening Tech Bits
An Italian council has implemented a 200% tax on new data center developments in agricultural zones. This measure aims to encourage the utilization of existing industrial areas and mitigate environmental concerns.
Perseverance checks in from Mars with a selfie, the mounting pollution from satellite launches, and more science stories
The Perseverance rover on Mars has sent back a new selfie, while concerns grow regarding pollution from satellite launches. This week's science news covers these and other developments.
Switch 2 now allows users to replace the battery themselves; EU version supports "right to repair"
Nintendo is updating its policies for the Nintendo Switch 2 to align with the European Union's "right to repair" legislation, allowing users to replace the console's battery themselves. This move aims to reduce environmental impact, with potential for similar policies in other regions if consumer awareness grows.
Switch 2 now allows users to replace the battery themselves; EU version supports ″right to repair″
Nintendo is updating its policies for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 to align with the European Union's "right to repair" legislation, allowing users to replace the console's battery themselves. This move aims to reduce environmental impact, with potential for similar policies in other regions if consumer awareness grows.
Nikkei: Nintendo making Switch 2 revision with replaceable battery for the EU
Nintendo is reportedly developing a revision of the Nintendo Switch 2 console with a replaceable battery, primarily for the European market to comply with EU legislation on the right to repair and reduce environmental impact. This design change aims to simplify repairs for consumers and may be extended to other regions in the future.
Nintendo Switch 2 games might be bigger, but not in a good way
Leaks from retailers suggest the Nintendo Switch 2 may feature larger physical game cases, measuring approximately 13 cm by 19.5 cm compared to the original Switch's 4.1 inches by 6.6 inches. This potential change has raised concerns about environmental impact and storage space among fans, though Nintendo has not officially confirmed these details.
