Abstract

This is the abstract that I wrote for the project proposal. The entire proposal can be found here: Sustainable Computing Through Desktop Virtualization.

Sustainable Computing Through Desktop Virtualization

Abstract

Green IT or green computing involves implementing environmental and sustainable practices in computing and information technology. Green IT revolves around four core concepts; virtualization, workforce mobility, e-waste recycling and energy efficiency (Green computing). The University of Montana’s Climate Action Plan outlines strategies for achieving campus-wide carbon neutrality by the 2020.  Desktop computers in an office environment are one of the biggest overall contributors to the office workers overall carbon footprint. Energy-wise IT is presented in the Climate Action Plan as a strategy for achieving greater energy efficiency and conservation. (Peacock, 2010).  The Desktop Virtualization project will study the implementation of desktop virtualization through thin-client computing in the workplace to achieve the following goals (1) achieve greater energy efficiency (2)Investigate repurposing of legacy computers as thin-client devices to extend the computing lifecycle and reduce e-waste (3) reduce the carbon footprint of the information worker. It will measure energy conservation through the replacement of standard desktop PCs with thin-client computing devices and virtualized desktops as a way to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the information worker. It will also study the use of legacy computers as thin-client devices to extend the computing lifecycle and reduce e-waste. The Desktop Virtualization project will take action to meet the growing need to reduce energy consumption and make the University of Montana Climate Action Plan a reality.