In the early days of the internet, memes like “I Can Has Cheezburger?” captured our imaginations without a thought to their environmental impact. But as the digital world has expanded, so has the energy required to store its vast content—much of which is now considered “dark data.” Dark data refers to information that is used once and then forgotten, yet it continues to consume energy in data centers worldwide.
Research has shown that a staggering 68% of data stored by companies is never used again. For individuals, this pattern is likely similar. From old memes to forgotten photos, these pieces of data accumulate in the cloud, which is far from the idyllic, ethereal concept its name suggests. In reality, cloud storage relies on massive data centers that are incredibly energy-intensive, contributing significantly to carbon emissions.
Ian Hodgkinson, a professor of strategy at Loughborough University, has been investigating the climate impact of dark data. His findings are eye-opening. “Many still assume that data is carbon neutral,” Hodgkinson explains. “But every piece of data, whether it be an image, an Instagram post, or a meme, carries a carbon footprint.”
This hidden impact is no small matter. By 2030, data centers are expected to account for nearly 6% of the UK’s total electricity consumption. This means that reducing dark data is an important, yet often overlooked, aspect of tackling the climate crisis.
The financial incentives for tech companies and cloud operators to retain this data are significant. The more data stored, the more customers pay for storage space. But as Hodgkinson points out, “We’re paying for something which we’re not ever going to use again, often without even realizing it exists.”
So, what can be done? Simple steps like sending fewer unnecessary emails, avoiding the “reply all” button, and regularly clearing out digital clutter can help. Hodgkinson emphasizes that raising awareness of the carbon footprint of data is crucial. If people begin to consider the environmental impact of their digital habits, it could lead to meaningful behavioral changes.
As we become increasingly reliant on digital technology, understanding and addressing the environmental costs of data storage is essential. Every unused file or forgotten email adds to a growing problem that can no longer be ignored. The time to act is now, before the energy demands of dark data push us further off the path to net zero by 2050.