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The Hindu
5 hours ago
- Science
- The Hindu
How the technology industry is trying to meet its climate goals
A team of researchers from Microsoft and WSP Global has published a groundbreaking study in Nature demonstrating that advanced cooling methods like cold plates and immersion cooling can cut data centre emissions by 15-21%, energy use by 15-20%, and water consumption by 31-52% compared to traditional air cooling. The life cycle assessment, led by Husam Alissa of Microsoft, Mukunth Natarajan, and Praneet Arshi of WSP, among others, also provided actionable insights to help the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry meet its climate goals. 'Our [life cycle assessment] has shown that reducing data centre energy use through advanced liquid-cooling technologies will lead to marked reductions in data centre environmental impacts,' the authors wrote in their paper. Electronics versus rising temperatures Electronics heat up like crowded kitchens: billions of microscopic switches (transistors) are like cooks working nonstop, bumping into each other while flipping electrical dosas (data). The tighter they are packed — that is smaller the chips are — or the more tasks they handle, the more they collide and create heat, just like a packed kitchen gets hotter, needing fans and ACs to cool down. A laptop is like a kitchen with one burner: a simple fan suffices. A data centre is like a thousand laptops working at full speed in a single room, generating heat like a massive bonfire compared to a single candle. Without cooling, the intense heat will melt the hardware in minutes. Heat slows down electrons, like runners in thick mud. If the chips get too hot, they may malfunction or altogether fail. Cooling keeps them running smoothly, ensures a longer lifespan and fast and reliable performance, and prevents heat damage. Just like an athlete needs water to stay sharp in a race, electronics need efficient heat removal. Race to cut emissions In data centres, cooling consumes nearly as much power as computing, like an AC fighting oven heat in a busy kitchen. To curb climate change, the ICT industry needs to cut emissions by 42% by 2030 (from its 2015 levels). Data centres need greener designs that use less energy and water, and have lower greenhouse gas emissions to help meet global climate goals and keep warming below 1.5°C. Urgent upgrades to energy, efficiency, and cooling are critical. Chips are also getting smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient, like upgrading your phone every year without draining the battery faster. As the demand for cloud services increases, so must data centre capacities and heat mitigation strategies. Ice packs and oil baths Two prominent cooling techniques have emerged as viable alternatives. Cold plates, also known as direct-to-chip cooling, are small heat exchange modules equipped with microchannels to enhance heat transfer. Think of a cold plate like an ice pack strapped to a feverish forehead, but for computer chips. It sits directly on hot components, with small coolant-filled channels absorbing heat into tiny channels filled with coolant. When it becomes warmer, the coolant — such as 25% polyethylene glycol and 75% water — flows away and dumps the heat outside, while fresh coolant entering the veins keep the cycle going. This method is more efficient than fans the same way swapping a handheld fan for an ice-cold bath is better. In a cold-plate system, the liquid-to-air heat transfer ratio ranges from 50% to 80%, sometimes more. The second technique, immersion cooling, is like dunking a hot frying pan into a pool of heat-hungry oil instead of blowing air on it. The oil, which is good at dissipating heat within itself, soaks up 100% of the pan's heat and keeps it from overheating. In the one-phase cooling method, like swirling cold water around the pan, the oil stays liquid but carries heat away. In two-phase cooling, the technique works the way water cools in a mud pot: the coolant fluid bubbles into vapour at a low temperature, rises into a cooling coil, condenses, drips back down, and repeats. 'These techs cut corrosion, boost reliability, and slash carbon footprint — all while running silent without fans,' the researchers wrote. Pioneers like Microsoft and Alibaba are already deploying these systems at scale. Green or just less dirty? To truly lower the carbon footprint of cooling technologies, scientists, policymakers, and lawmakers need to weigh its full impact. While the new solutions are innovative, they face hurdles. Coolant fluids involve different regulations, and complex designs delay deployment. Using them is like swapping plastic straws for paper: they are greener, but not without trade-offs. The world could end up trading one ecological problem for a different, even worse, one. If the electricity for an electric car comes from a coal power plant, the car's carbon footprint is still high. Similarly, cooling gains can backfire if pollution is merely shifted elsewhere. The study team's cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment evaluated air-cooled, cold-plate, and immersion cooling across emissions, energy, and water use, proving that sustainability demands systemic thinking, not isolated fixes. Twin engines of a green data centre The assessment revealed that with grid electricity, cold plates and immersion cooling cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 15%, energy use by more than 15%, and water consumption by more than 31% — making them superior to conventional cooling technologies in use today. With 100% renewable energy, the team found the cuts could jump to 13% for emissions, 15% for energy, and 50% for water. 'Switching to renewables slashes emissions by 85-90%, energy use by 6-7%, and water demand by 55–85%, regardless of cooling tech,' the researchers wrote. Thus, life cycle assessments can reveal sustainability trade-offs either within the same cooling technology or when comparing different technologies. Ultimately, the calculus is clear: ICT's climate future hinges on tackling how the industry cools its data centres. T.V. Venkateswaran is a science communicator and visiting faculty member at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Asia-Pacific countries keen to learn from Malaysia's JENDELA, 5G rollout
TOKYO: Several Asia-Pacific nations have shown keen interest in Malaysia's experience with the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) and the rollout of its 5G network, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He said bilateral meetings with representatives from several countries in the region, held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting (APT-MM) 2025 here, also discussed efforts to combat scams and cybercrime. 'I see many opportunities for Malaysia to forge closer ties with countries in the region, including within the Asia-Pacific, and to adopt successful strategies they have implemented. 'At the same time, they can learn from Malaysia's experience, particularly in improving infrastructure through the JENDELA programme and 5G deployment,' he told Bernama here today. Earlier, Fahmi held bilateral discussions with Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Seru Nakausabaria Kamikamica, as well as Iran's Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr Seyed Sattar Hashemi. Fahmi is leading the Malaysian delegation to APT-MM 2025, which aims to strengthen regional cooperation in telecommunications and information technology. He said Malaysia recognises Fiji's important role in developing digital infrastructure among Pacific Island nations and welcomes the opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation. 'Fiji's digital transformation initiatives are also very progressive, including the implementation of online birth registration, improvements to business processes, and innovations such as the M-PAiSA Mastercard. 'Malaysia also appreciates the active contribution of the Islamic Republic of Iran in APT. Both countries are committed to exploring closer collaboration in the field of information and communications technology,' he said. Themed 'Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Sustainable, Inclusive and Equitable Digital Transformation in the Asia-Pacific', this year's APT-MM was attended by 31 member states together with 19 affiliate members comprising Asia Pacific's government agencies, regulators and private entities.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Asia-Pacific looks to learn from Malaysia's JENDELA, 5G rollout
TOKYO: Several Asia-Pacific nations have shown keen interest in Malaysia's experience with the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) and the rollout of its 5G network, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He said bilateral meetings with representatives from several countries in the region, held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting (APT-MM) 2025 here, also discussed efforts to combat scams and cybercrime. 'I see many opportunities for Malaysia to forge closer ties with countries in the region, including within the Asia-Pacific, and to adopt successful strategies they have implemented. 'At the same time, they can learn from Malaysia's experience, particularly in improving infrastructure through the JENDELA programme and 5G deployment,' he told Bernama here today. Earlier, Fahmi held bilateral discussions with Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Seru Nakausabaria Kamikamica, as well as Iran's Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr Seyed Sattar Hashemi. Fahmi is leading the Malaysian delegation to APT-MM 2025, which aims to strengthen regional cooperation in telecommunications and information technology. He said Malaysia recognises Fiji's important role in developing digital infrastructure among Pacific Island nations and welcomes the opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation. 'Fiji's digital transformation initiatives are also very progressive, including the implementation of online birth registration, improvements to business processes, and innovations such as the M-PAiSA Mastercard. 'Malaysia also appreciates the active contribution of the Islamic Republic of Iran in APT. Both countries are committed to exploring closer collaboration in the field of information and communications technology,' he said. Themed 'Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Sustainable, Inclusive and Equitable Digital Transformation in the Asia-Pacific', this year's APT-MM was attended by 31 member states together with 19 affiliate members comprising Asia Pacific's government agencies, regulators and private entities.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Malatsi's B-BBEE policy sets ‘wrong precedent'
Communications and digital technologies minister Solly Malatsi. Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers COMMUNICATIONS and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi's policy direction to ease broad-based economic empowerment (B-BBEE) regulations in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector faces an uphill battle, with MPs from within and outside the coalition government expressing their strong objections on Tuesday. Malatsi was hauled before the Communications and Digital Technologies Portfolio Committee to explain his new policy directives aimed at easing Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) requirements for licensing satellite services, including American billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink. Malatsi reiterated his commitment to the principles of transformation in South Africa, stating that the new policy does not aim to create exceptions for specific companies or individuals. Malatsi, who highlighted the ongoing efforts to introduce an equity equivalent investment programme in the ICT sector, clarified that his department's work predates recent international developments, specifically referring to last week's visit to Washington by the South African delegation led by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Malatsi dismissed claims that the timing of the gazette could benefit Starlink, saying: 'This work is not about introducing dispensation for any individual or company.' The minister sought to reassure the committee that the policy direction allows stakeholders 30 days to submit their views, which will help shape the final product. 'In the end, Icasa may continue to require 30% (B-BBEE ownership), but it must permit commitments envisaged in the ICT sector conditions for valid applications for individual licences,' he stated. However, dissent erupted within the committee, with members expressing alarm over the implications of the proposed policy. ANC MP Oscar Mathafa questioned Malatsi's decision to open licensing applications without a clear strategy encompassing the equity equivalent programme, arguing that this move could undermine the transformation agenda that the government was mandated to pursue. 'We request all parties and members of society who are interested in this matter to reject this particular policy direction,' he said emphatically. The sentiment was echoed by EFF MP Sinawo Thambo, who accused Malatsi of attempting to amend legislation covertly through policy directions designed to align the B-BBEE Act with ICT sector codes. His colleague Sixolise Gcilishe said the EFF would not hesitate to legally challenge the proposals. 'We will explore all legal mechanisms. We are not to accept our laws being written in Washington. You are setting a wrong precedent by bending backwards when you are bullied. This is about Starlink and Washington,' Gcilishe said. MK Party MP Colleen Makhubele accused Malatsi of failing to engage transparently with stakeholders and highlighted the need for a thorough regulatory impact assessment before proceeding with the proposed policy changes. DA MP Tsholofelo Bodlani countered the criticism, urging critics to acknowledge the opportunity for public comment within the 30-day submission period. 'All choose to ignore that little fact,' he remarked, suggesting that some criticisms were politically motivated. Committee chairperson, Khusela Sangoni-Diko, raised concerns about the legal authority Malatsi held to align the B-BBEE with ICT codes, questioning the potential consequences of removing the 30% B-BBEE requirement. 'Why take away from black people one thing they can make a structural shift in the economy?' she pressed, advocating for industry players' desire for regulatory parity. In response, Malatsi expressed surprise over the committee's shock regarding the policy proposals, reiterating that the discussions had been ongoing.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Minister Malatsi defends ICT sector empowerment regulations against opposition
Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi said he was not attempting to open a special dispensation for Starlink or any other company or individual when he introduced the policy directives that relax black economic empowerment regulations. Image: Supplied Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi faced fierce criticism on Tuesday as he defended the policy direction to relax broad-based economic empowerment (B-BBEE) regulations in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. During a briefing with the Communications and Digital Technologies Portfolio Committee, Malatsi reiterated his commitment to the principles of transformation in South Africa, stating that the new policy does not aim to create exceptions for specific companies or individuals. Malatsi, who highlighted the ongoing efforts to introduce an equity equivalent investment programme in the ICT sector, clarified that his department's work predates recent international developments, specifically referring to last week's visit to Washington by the South African delegation led by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Although critics suggest that the timing of the gazette could benefit Starlink, the satellite internet company owned by billionaire Elon Musk, Malatsi firmly dismissed these claims. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'This work is not about introducing dispensation for any individual or company,' he asserted, emphasising the importance of consistent application of the B-BBEE Act and ensuring that transformation mirrors what is happening in other economic sectors. The minister sought to reassure the committee that the policy direction allows stakeholders 30 days to submit their views, which will help shape the final policy. 'In the end, Icasa may continue to require 30% (B-BBEE ownership), but it must permit commitments envisaged in the ICT sector conditions for valid applications for individual licences,' he stated. However, dissent erupted within the committee, with members expressing alarm over the implications of the proposed policy. ANC MP Oscar Mathafa questioned Malatsi's decision to open licensing applications without a clear strategy encompassing the equity equivalent programme, arguing that this move could undermine the transformation agenda that the government is mandated to pursue. 'We request all parties and members of society who are interested in this matter to reject this particular policy direction,' he said emphatically. The sentiment was echoed by EFF MP Sinawo Thambo, who alleged that Malatsi was attempting to amend legislation covertly through policy directions designed to align the B-BBEE Act with ICT sector codes. Colleague Sixolise Gcilishe added that her party would not hesitate to legally challenge the proposals, underscoring a commitment to upholding South African laws against perceived external influence, particularly from Washington. 'We will explore all legal mechanisms. We are not to accept our laws to be written in Washington. You are setting a wrong precedent by bending backwards when you are bullied. This is about Starlink and Washington,' Gcilishe said. Adding to the chorus of criticism, MK Party's Colleen Makhubele accused Malatsi of failing to engage transparently with stakeholders and highlighted the need for a thorough regulatory impact assessment before proceeding with the proposed policy changes. DA MP Tsholofelo Bodlani countered the criticism, urging critics to acknowledge the opportunity for public comment within the 30-day submission period. 'All choose to ignore that little fact,' he remarked, suggesting that some criticisms were politically motivated. The committee chairperson, Khusela Sangoni-Diko, raised concerns about the legal authority Malatsi held to align the B-BBEE with ICT codes, questioning the potential consequences of removing the 30% B-BBEE requirement. 'Why take away from black people one thing they can make a structural shift in the economy?' she pressed, advocating for industry players' desire for regulatory parity. In response, Malatsi expressed surprise over the committee's shock regarding the policy proposals, reiterating that the discussions had been ongoing. 'There could be no legitimacy to a claim whatsoever that this process was done in a clandestine manner. We are in a stage that involves and invites public submissions,' he maintained.
