Impact of ‘Metaverse’

‘The Metaverse is a collective virtual open space, created by the convergence of virtually enhanced physical and digital reality.’

According to Data Quest, analysts are worried that the metaverse could lead to an influx of greenhouse gas emissions. Virtual reality technology and data centers use AI and cloud services, which require quite large amounts of energy.

A recent study estimates that training just one AI model could generate 626,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, which is more than five times the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by a car during its lifetime. Cloud gaming, which is necessary for VR, could also raise carbon emissions by 2030. And, it will increase the necessity for hi-res images, which only increases the need for more energy.

Supposedly, data centers like Facebook and Microsoft have promised to achieve net-zero emissions, even though that likely means that instead of transitioning to cleaner means of energy, the company will simply make vague “environmental investments.” And, the continuous development of VR will encourage people to buy new technology, which means an influx in e-waste, which is polluting our soil, groundwater, and landfills.

You are being redirected…. 2022. You are being redirected…. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.analyticsinsight.net/the-good-bad-and-ugly-of-metaverse-in-environment-sustainability/. [Accessed 17 June 2022].