Ah-Lian teaches on our undergraduate computing courses, as well as our pioneering MSc Sustainable IT. When it comes to carrying out your own sustainability research for your dissertation in your final year, she might even be your project supervisor.

Study one of our computing courses and you will complete exciting group projects and work in specialist facilities, developing skills that boost your employability and help you feel confident in your maiden industry role. There is a growing demand for skilled and sustainably-focused IT professionals, so you won’t be short of opportunities to make an impact when you graduate.

Making IT greener

Ah-Lian has been involved with many green IT projects with universities in different countries, including France, Ukraine, and Sweden. She recognises that sustainable IT is yet to be at the forefront of the climate change conversation, so raising awareness through education and innovative research is critical.

In the past, funding for green IT projects was readily available. Now the shift towards machine learning has taken the focus away from finding solutions to reduce the vast amount of energy that technology consumes. So, what can we do to give this area the attention it desperately needs?

Rethinking our use of technology

Dr Ah-Lian Kor says, “There are many ways we can control and manage the energy consumption of IT and make devices last longer. By reducing carbon emissions, we can lower the temperature of the atmosphere and pollutants in the air. Ultimately, making technology more sustainable could help us mitigate the impact of climate change.”

Industry needs to change

Ah-Lian argues manufacturers need to make technology more resource efficient. Enhanced power management features are one change industries are making but it is equally important for brands to make equipment that lasts longer.

When it comes to upgrading our mobile phones, Ah-Lian points out, “The features and processing power in new models increases so quickly that consumers are encouraged to upgrade their models regularly. When consumers decide to keep their phones it becomes difficult as they slow down and are not compatible with the latest software applications.”

What you can do

To put it back on big corporations’ agendas, we need to show them we care. And it starts with the way we use technology. Do you know video streaming in HD is contributing to climate change problems? And are you aware sending emails increases your carbon footprint? Energy company OVO s if every adult in the UK sent one less “thank you” email, it could save 16,433 tonnes of carbon a year – the equivalent to taking 3,334 diesel cars off the road. And perhaps you could live with upgrading your phone a little less often?

Together, we can challenge the industry to do better by showing we are taking action as individuals to reduce our carbon footprint. Study computing at Leeds Beckett and you’ll learn how to succeed in industry and help shape a more sustainable future for IT.