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When internet raised to the things power: Are energy efficiency standards sufficient to curb carbon footprints?

Abstract:

This paper argues that improving energy efficiency which the ICT research, industrial and standardization bodies are currently emphasizing, and implicitly assuming that more energy efficient technologies can contribute more to the reduction of energy consumptions, and as a consequence of carbon emissions impact on the environment, is only part of the solution. It points out that promoting energy efficiency without curbing the overall energy consumption may not necessarily reduce carbon footprints. Advancing the energy efficiency might only lower the unit price of using energy and associated ICT services, hence making their usage more affordable and leading to greater uses. This leads to a 'rebound' effect, which produces more carbon emissions. Therefore the green ICT research, industrial and standardization bodies' emphasis should be shifting from energy efficiency to energy self-sufficiency for a 'technical fix', rather than only seeking economical governance solutions such as ecological policies, regulations and the introduction of carbon footprint taxes additions.