HD streaming on phone has 8 times more emissions to SD: One hour of high definition (HD) video streaming on mobile phones may create 8 times more CO2 emissions compared to standard definition (SD).
That’s reported by a new report from the Royal Society, that investigates the role of digital technologies in creating a low carbon economy & believes actions on limiting streaming resolution should be taken by platforms and regulators to unlock environmental benefits.
The independent scientific academy points out that responsible streaming could be supported by changes in online services designs. Turning off the video for YouTube users who are only listening to the content could save anywhere from 1% and 5% of the service’s total carbon dioxide emissions.
The authors of the research also say owning & using devices for longer can benefit the planet. If a mobile phone is switched every 4 years instead of two years the carbon footprint from manufacturing may be halved.
The report also says digital technology, from smart meters to supercomputers, weather modelling & AI, could deliver almost one-third of the carbon emission reductions needed by 2030.
Professor Andy Hopper Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, Fellow of the Royal Society, Vice President of the Royal Society and Professor of Computer Technology, University of Cambridge, states: “There are many routes to net zero, but digital technology has a central role to play, no matter what sector or country you look at.
“Transparent technology can benefit consumers, the technology sector and the planet. If more people are confident in moving their computing onto the cloud, energy savings are possible using more efficient data centres.”
HD streaming on phone has 8 times more emissions to SD
