A Sustainable Shift: Integrating Green Computing into Virtual Reality
Extended Reality
5-minute read
With virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) permeating different facets of our lives, incorporating green computing into this growing immersive medium, which requires considerable processing power to render immersive visuals, is more relevant than ever.
This article explores the concept of green computing, its impact on VR, and how end users, hardware makers, and developers can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Understanding green computing.
Green computing or sustainable computing refers to the environmentally responsible use of computers and their resources. The concept encompasses the practices and procedures of designing, manufacturing, deploying, and disposing of electronic devices efficiently with minimal environmental impact.
Key components of green computing include:
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Reducing the use of hazardous materials.
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Maximizing energy efficiency during the product's lifetime.
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Promoting the recyclability or biodegradability of products and factory waste.
The impact of green computing on VR.
VR technology, known for its immersive experiences, can be a big consumer of energy. Green computing can help mitigate these effects in several ways:
Minimize energy use.
The latest headsets and computers now leverage power-optimized GPUs (graphics processing units) and other energy-efficient components to decrease VR systems’ energy demand. Designed using cutting-edge semiconductor technology, the chipsets enable more computing capability per watt. These processors also generate less heat, curtailing the need for energy-hungry cooling solutions.
The benefits of energy conversion go beyond reducing the carbon footprint – they’re simple life hacks and smart business decisions that trim electric bills for consumers and enable substantial savings for companies that utilize VR on a large scale.
Headset makers that adopt these advanced processors also enhance the appeal of their brand through improved sustainability and future-proof their product portfolio. As environmental regulations become stricter and consumer preferences shift towards more eco-friendly options, offering an energy-efficient headset will be a competitive advantage.
On the software side, technology such as foveated rendering, which directs processing resources for images in the user's line of sight and reduces the resolution in the peripheral vision of a VR scene, significantly cuts the CPU's workload and energy requirement.
With the rising popularity of always-on digital worlds that demand real-time graphics rendering, cloud computing is another eco-friendly solution. It limits the need for powerful local hardware and shifts the load to energy-efficient data centers that are partly or entirely powered by clean energy. Polygon streaming technology, which facilitates the processing and transmission of 3D graphics data from a cloud source to a client device, is a perfect example. Instead of rendering the whole 3D model all at once, polygon streaming transfers only the necessary data for the polygon surfaces currently "visible" to the user, optimizing computing resources.
Reduce waste.
According to International Data Corporation (IDC), Global VR and AR headset sales exceeded 8 million units in both 2022 and 2023, and the market is projected to expand to 28.6 million units by 2027. That's a lot of electronic waste, as newer options replace older models.
Hence, in addition to developing headsets that deliver the best experience, manufacturers must consider the device's environmental impact when its lifecycle comes to an end.
New headsets use modular designs to extend their lifespan. The VIVE XR Elite, for example, consists of a pair of immersive glasses and a detachable battery cradle, which allows users to easily replace the battery itself rather than discarding the entire device. Moreover, 76% of the materials used in the headset are recyclable and reusable, further eliminating potential electronic waste.
VR in environmental awareness education.
Beyond progress made in hardware and software development, VR has the unique capability to educate and promote environmental stewardship.
The overview effect is a cognitive shift in awareness reported by some astronauts while viewing Earth from outer space. It's an experience characterized by a sudden and striking understanding of the fragility of life on our planet. Observers are struck by the sight of Earth – it's just a tiny, vulnerable "blue marble" suspended in the black vastness of space.
Those astronauts described a renewed sense of responsibility for Earth's well-being and a profound connection to fellow humankind. Permanent changes in perspectives and attitudes are a frequent result, prompting them to advocate for planetary preservation and more harmonious ways of living.
Fully immersive, highly realistic VR can place earthbound users in new vantage points, amplifying and replicating the overview effect. Educators and content producers are leveraging VR to simulate environments impacted by climate change, providing a visceral “firsthand” experience of the adverse effects of environmental neglect.
Green computing tips for VR.
Individual VR users can also play a part in supporting green computing and sustainability. Creating an eco-friendly system involves conscious choices and smart habits:
Energy-efficient settings.
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Adjust brightness: VR headsets, like any display device, consume less power at lower brightness. Adjust the settings to a comfortable level that doesn't strain your eyes but also doesn't use unnecessary power.
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Limit frame rate: Higher frame rates provide smoother visuals but require more power. Set your device to a lower frame rate when playing less graphics-intensive games or using applications that do not benefit from the highest possible frame rate.
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Power-saving modes: Enable any built-in power-saving features in your VR headset or connected devices. These modes optimize performance to extend battery life and reduce energy use when idle.
Power management.
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Automatic shutdown: Configure your VR devices to turn off automatically after a period of inactivity. Avoid the energy drain of leaving electronics on standby, which can still consume significant power.
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Advanced power strip: Detects when a device is in standby mode and cuts off power completely, which helps manage and reduce passive energy consumption.
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Unplug chargers: VR equipment often includes controllers that need charging. Unplug the chargers when not in use, as they can draw power even when not connected to your devices.
Smart purchase
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Look for energy certifications: When choosing new VR hardware, buy products certified by third-party, government-approved energy efficiency standards.
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Research eco-friendly options: Some companies are committed to sustainability, using recycled materials or offering a responsible electronic waste recycling program. Support these brands by choosing their products over less eco-friendly ones.
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Consider longevity and repairability: Invest in high-quality VR gear that is known for durability and can be easily repaired rather than replaced. This approach helps reduce the demand for new hardware and the environmental toll of production and shipping.
Integrating green computing into the VR sector is now a necessity and an opportunity to lead by example in the tech industry. By embracing energy-efficient hardware and software, adopting sustainable practices at home, and using VR as a tool for environmental education, this can significantly lessen our ecological impact and pave the way for a sustainable future. As the world continues to innovate, let us commit to being stewards of the planet, ensuring that our virtual worlds contribute positively to the real world.
