SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS

BACHELOR OF COMMERCE
DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

UNIT TITLE : INFORMATION SYSTEMS

MANAGEMENT
UNIT CODE : CMT 403
GROUP MEMBERS
1. MARY NJERI KINYANJUI – 1062433
2. WARREN MWANGI – 1062364
3. DAISY MOKEIRA ORINAH – 1062120
4. STEPHANIE KERUBO – 1062300
5. ESTHER NYAMBURA MAINA – 1062359
6. WANJIKU MICHELLE KAMAU – 1062367
7. MAIYANI ABIGAEL METIAN – 1062316
8. BRIAN SUNKULI – 1062248
 GREEN COMPUTING

A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO GREEN COMPUTING

DEFINITION ;
Green Computing is also known as Green IT or sustainable IT.
It is the design, manufacture, use and disposal of computers, chips, other technology
components and peripheral in a way that limits the harmful impacts on the
environment, which include reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption by
manufacturers, data centers and end-users.
It also encompasses choosing sustainably sourced raw materials, reducing electronic
waste and promoting sustainability through the use of renewable resources.
Green computing can also be defined as the practice of using technology in a way
that reduces its environmental impact.
This involves efficient use of resources, minimizing waste and promoting
sustainability in all stages of a product’s life cycle.
 GOALS OF GREEN COMPUTING
1. Reduce energy consumption – This involves implementing power management
strategies to reduce energy usage during idle periods. For example, switching off
bulbs when not in use and upgrading to energy saving light bulbs.
2. Cost reduction – Optimizing resource usage can lead to cost savings and
increased efficiency. For example, the use of energy efficient devices which
consume less power leading to lower cost of electricity and lesser wastage.
3. Minimize environmental impact – By promoting recycling of waste and using
environmentally friendly materials in the manufacturing process.
4. Promoting sustainability – This is done by adopting energy-efficient hardware
for example, the use of modern servers and computers that are designed to
consume less power without compromising performance.
5. Enhance corporate reputation – Adopting green computing practices can
enhance a company’s reputation as a socially responsible organization. This will
make customers who value sustainability be more likely to choose companies
with green initiatives.
 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF GREEN COMPUTING
1. Reduced deforestation – The production of electronic devices often involves the
use of materials that contribute to deforestation. Green computing practices can
help reduce demand for these raw materials, protecting forests and their
ecosystems.
2. Water conservation – Implementing water saving measures in data centers and
other IT facilities help conserve water resources.
3. Electronic waste reduction – Proper disposal of electronic waste prevents
harmful chemicals and materials from contaminating the environment. Recycling
and reusing electronic components help conserve natural resources that are used
in the manufacturing process.
4. Reduced energy consumption – By reducing energy consumption, green
computing practices can significantly decrease green house gas emissions
associated with power generation.
5. Sustainable materials – Using environmentally friendly materials in the
manufacturing process helps protect ecosystems and biodiversity. Minimizing the
 KEY COMPONENTS OF GREEN COMPUTING
1. Energy efficiency – Implementing power management strategies to reduce
energy consumption during idle periods or low usage times.
2. Cloud computing – Leveraging cloud computing services to optimize resource
utilization and reduce energy consumption. Utilizing shared infrastructure in
cloud environments to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
3. Employee education and awareness – providing training and awareness
programs to employees about green computing practices and the importance of
sustainability and encouraging employee participation in green initiatives to
promote a culture of environmental responsibility.
4. Green software development - implementing low power modes in software to
reduce energy consumption during idle periods.
5. Sustainable material – Using recyclable and bio-degradable packaging
materials. Minimizing the use of hazardous substances in electronic
components.
 BENEFITS OF GREEN COMPUTING
1. Environmental benefits – By minimizing energy consumption and waste, green
computing helps to conserve valuable resources like water and minerals. Reduced
carbon emissions contribute to cleaner air and a healthy environment.
2. Social benefits - The development and implementation of green technologies can
create new jobs and stimulate economic growth. Green practices such as, improved
indoor air quality and reduced noise pollution can contribute to a healthier and
more comfortable workplace for economic benefits.
3. Economic benefits – companies that prioritize green computing can improve their
public image and attract environmentally conscious customers and investors.
Energy efficient practices can lead to lower electricity bills, while waste reduction
and recycling can save money on disposal costs,
4. Compliance and incentives – Aligns with government regulations and companies
that adopt green computing can qualify for green certifications and tax benefits.
5. Corporate social responsibility – Demonstrates commitment to sustainability and
attracts eco-conscious customers, employees and investors.
 STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTING GREEN
COMPUTING
1. Remote work and Telecommuting - An easy way to lower carbon emissions
associated with transportation and office energy consumption is to allow
employees to work remotely.
2. Green procurement - Prioritize purchasing energy-efficient and
environmentally friendly computing equipment that meets stringent
environmental and energy efficiency standards.
3. Optimized Software Development - Develop and optimize software
applications with energy efficiency in mind to reduce energy consumption and
improve the performance of computing systems.
4. Education and Awareness - Raise employees’ awareness about the
environmental impact of computing activities and encourage sustainable
practices.
5. Cloud computing – Remove the need for on-premise infrastructure by using
cloud computing services.
 BENEFITS OF IMPLEMENTING GREEN
TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
1. Lower Energy Costs: Reducing electricity usage with energy-efficient
devices or alternative energy sources can lower overall energy costs for
businesses when adopted on a large scale.
2. Strengthen you brands: Establishing yourself as a brand with tangible
sustainability practice is a key market differentiator. Eco-conscious customers
are more likely to purchase from brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices.
3. Competitive Advantage: Pursuing sustainability goals can lead to more
profitability and interest from potential investors. Studies support that ESG is a
top priority for CEOs and CIOs.
4. Inspire Innovation: Green computing practices can drive sustainable
innovation. New products, services, processes, and methods can become both
sustainable and profitable.
5. Attract and Retain Talent: One in three Gen Z individuals turned down a job
because a company lacked ESG commitments that were in line with their
personal values on sustainability. Employees in today’s job marketplace are
demanding organizations with a proactive approach to sustainability
management.
 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF GREEN
COMPUTING

ADVANTAGES
1. Green Computing is cost effective due to less energy usage and cooling
requirements.
2. Sustainable IT helps in the preservation and effective utilization of
natural resources.
3. It encourages reuse and recyclability that will result in a lesser number of
electronic wastes.
4. Sustainable computing inspires people to reduce, reuse and recycle.
5. Green computing/IT implementation helps in improving the public
image of an individual or an organization.
6. It causes a considerable reduction in the quantity of heat produced from
computing devices.
DISADVANTAGES
1. The initial implementation is costly.
2. Frequent change in technology.
3. Fewer courses and publications related to green
computing.
4. The disparity in the level of understanding across
various companies, professionals and end-users.
 CHALLENGES IN ADOPTING GREEN COMPUTING
1. Initial costs – Upgrading to energy efficient hardware and software can be costly.
Implementing green data centers or other sustainable infrastructure may require
significant investments.
2. Technical Challenges : Ensuring compatibility between new green technologies and
existing IT infrastructure can be complex. Some green practices, such as virtualization
or cloud computing, may require careful optimization to maintain performance levels.
3. Lack of Awareness and Education: Educating employees about green computing
practices and their benefits can be time-consuming. Employees may resist changes to
their work habits or processes.
4. Measurement and Accountability: Developing and tracking appropriate metrics to
measure the environmental impact of green computing initiatives can be challenging.
Ensuring that all departments and employees are accountable for green computing
practices can be difficult.
5. Regulatory and Policy Barriers: Complying with government regulations related to
energy efficiency and waste management can be burdensome. Adhering to industry
standards and certifications can be time-consuming and costly.
STEPS THAT ONE CAN TAKE TO ADOPT TO GREEN COMPUTING

1. Turn off your computers when not in use.

2. Use an optimal brightness level to conserve power.
3. Use printers, scanners and webcams only when required.
4. Don’t discard your computing devices rather donate them or recycle them.
5. Look for green packaging solutions.
6. Enable the power management feature in your devices.
7. Screen savers consume power so do not use them.
8. Purchase IT equipments from environmentally committed companies only.
9. Use sleep mode or hibernate features when not using computers for a short time.
10. Print only when required, use both printing and use only recycled papers.
 FUTURE TRENDS IN GREEN COMPUTING
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for Optimization: AI and ML can be
used to predict energy consumption patterns and optimize resource allocation. AI-powered
systems can automate routine tasks, reducing energy consumption and waste.
2. Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Devices: Energy Management: IoT devices can monitor
energy consumption and identify areas for improvement. Integrating IoT with building
management systems can optimize energy usage and reduce environmental impact.
3. Green Supply Chains: Sustainable Procurement: Organizations will prioritize suppliers that
adhere to sustainable practices. Tracking and reducing the carbon footprint of the entire supply
chain.
4. Blockchain Technology: Transparency and Traceability: Blockchain can provide transparency
and traceability throughout the supply chain, ensuring sustainable practices. Blockchain-based
solutions can optimize energy consumption in various applications.
5. Quantum Computing: Energy-Efficient Algorithms: Quantum computing may lead to the
development of more energy-efficient algorithms for various tasks. As technology continues to
advance, green computing will play an increasingly important role in addressing environmental
challenges and creating a more sustainable future.
 CONCLUSION
Green computing is a vital aspect of modern Information Systems Management,
focusing on reducing the environmental impact of IT operations while maintaining
efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
It involves adopting sustainable practices throughout the IT lifecycle—such as
energy-efficient hardware, virtualization, cloud computing, and proper e-waste
management.
For Information System managers, green computing strategies should align with
organizational goals, reduce operational costs, and enhance compliance with
environmental regulations. Despite initial implementation challenges, the long-term
benefits include a lower carbon footprint, optimized resource utilization, and a
positive corporate image. Ultimately, green computing not only supports
environmental sustainability but also promotes responsible and strategic
management of information systems, making it a critical component of future-
focused IT governance.
 REFERENCES
1. Agarwal, S., Basu, K., Nath, A. (2013). Green Computing and Green
Technology based teaching learning and administration in Higher
Education Institutions. International Journal of Advanced Computer
Research, 3(3)(11), 295-303.
2. Atrey, A., Jain, N., & Iyengar, N.Ch.S.N. (2013). A study on green cloud
computing International Journal of Grid and Distributed Computing
6(6), 93-102.
3. Kumar Garg, S., Buyya, R. (2012). Green computing and
environmental sustainability.Retrieved from
http://www.cloudbus.org/~raj/papers/Cloud-EnvSustainability2011.