Excessive Meme Sharing or ‘Reply All’ in Emails Causing Information Overload and Global Warming

Researchers from Loughborough University have discovered that most data on the cloud is classified as Dark data, meaning it is used once and then forgotten in the Data center, consuming energy continuously. The Guardian states that emails and memes we send to others may also be categorized in such data.

The research found that data used in companies, more than 2 out of 3 (68%), is not reused, and the usage of data follows a similar trend in personal use. The researchers believe that the reason for this trend is because we perceive using data in the cloud does not have any negative impact, similar to leaving data in the air. However, the more data we store, the more energy is consumed. One way to reduce data storage is by minimizing aimless email transmissions, particularly by avoiding reply all.

Reference: The Guardian

TLDR: Research shows that a significant amount of data on the cloud is Dark data, only used once and then forgotten, contributing to continuous energy consumption. It is crucial to minimize unnecessary email transmissions to reduce the energy consumed in storing data.