ECO:DIGIT
Enabling green COmputing and DIGItal Transformation
The aim of the joint project is to develop and provide an evaluation platform, hereinafter also referred to as a test bench, which discloses the environmental impact of software applications. This automated platform enables resource consumption and CO2e emissions to be assessed in a more transparent and standardised way.
Our Mission
ECO:DIGIT (Enabling Green COmputing and DIGItal Transformation) is working to develop a comprehensive methodology to identify the key environmental impacts of software applications. This methodology will be implemented in the test bench. This test bench will be platform-independent and is able to evaluate mobile applications, desktop applications as well as distributed systems and cloud-native applications. By doing so, the project brings transparency and objectivity to the resource consumption of software applications.
Problem: Understanding Environmental Impacts
The environmental impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) is a growing and often underestimated problem. As the use and complexity of software applications increases, so does their contribution to global pollution. In order to effectively reduce these impacts, it is essential that they are systematically and scientifically recorded and accurately quantified.
Status Quo: Current Challenges
Many of the solutions currently available focus on individual technologies and platforms, look only at power consumption and CO2 emissions, or require a great deal of manual effort. These approaches are therefore not sufficient to provide a complete and accurate picture of the environmental impact of software applications.
ECO:DIGIT Approach: Differentiating Features and Proposed Solutions
ECO:DIGIT uses existing resources and provides a plug-and-play solution for users. The creation of a digital twin of the IT systems and the implementation of an automated Life Cycle Assessment allow for a comprehensive evaluation of all components involved.
Research: Why is ECO:DIGIT a Research Project?
The project is innovative and encompasses numerous variables that have not yet been explored. It is the first of its kind to integrate such a large number of variable components. A user-friendly interface is crucial to ensure broad acceptance. By addressing these complex challenges, the project also opens up exciting opportunities for further exploration and refinement.
Value Added: ECO:DIGIT's Contribution to a Greener World
ECO:DIGIT helps you make informed decisions that take into account environmental impacts. Currently, developers often lack objective data to make sustainable decisions. This solution helps to make the IT landscape more environmentally friendly.
Jens Gröger from the Öko-Institut e.V. about the project ECO:DIGIT.
Consortium and contributors:
