JISC

Overview

Scientific and technical computing is already a major element in the energy consumption and carbon emissions of universities and research organisations. The bills and impacts are also growing rapidly as in silico work expands, driven by new opportunities such as enhanced visualisation, and actual substitution for in vivo and in vitro activity, e.g. replacement of physical manipulation of molecules by computer modelling. Absent radical action to improve computing and cooling efficiency, science-based institutions have growing difficulties in meeting environmental regulations and targets (especially in Europe), and are facing energy bills of a size that will greatly constrain actual research and teaching.

Aims and objectives

The project has two aims, both building on similar generic activities in SusteIT. Firstly, awareness raising beyond specialist ICT audiences e.g. amongst STEM decision makers and opinion formers, through an exploratory study of trends in STEM-related ICT, their energy (and other environmental) implications, and potential solutions to the challenge created by the latter (WP1). Secondly, the provision of practical support to a range of STEM-related ICT internal providers and users.

Project Methodology

The project has two main components:

1. Strategic Review – a summary document highlighting current trends in scientific computing, their implications for ICT demand and related environmental impacts, and ways of avoiding the potential constraints of soaring energy bills and failing to meet environmental regulations and sector targets.
2. Practical improvement actions, including experience sharing through events and other activities; and development of guidance materials and tools.

Anticipated outputs and outcomes

• Strategic review document;
• 12-15 cases and guidance documents;
• 4-6 specialised events;
• 15+ articles and presentations for key STEM audiences;
• session at the 2010 Labs 21 conference