Speaker: Michael Brand
How does our digital world affect our physical environment?
Our day-to-day experience of the digital world often leaves the impression that the internet is immaterial. The reality, however, is very different. Our digital worksites, social spaces, entertainment sites, and cloud storage rely on very real physical infrastructure. This physical infrastructure stretches across the globe and uses significant resources, including both energy and water. How environmentally costly is this infrastructure and how is this landscape changing with the advent of AI? This presentation explores the physical infrastructure of the internet through the lens of its resource use.
About the Speaker
Michael Brand is a Masters student in UC Berkeley's Goldman School of Public Policy, and his research focuses on the intersection of internet infrastructures, energy regulation, and community engagement strategies. Michael has been investigating the hidden environmental costs of the internet for the past two years, primarily focusing on emerging power sourcing strategies for data centers. At Berkeley, Michael teaches “Building A Sustainable Internet” the world’s first student-taught class on sustainable digital infrastructure which has expanded to over 275 students from 50 different majors. He also holds a Bachelor's degree for UC Berkeley in Environmental Economics and Policy.
Suggested Audiences
Age: adults and 9th - 12th grade students. This talk is not funded for community college settings.
Preparation: There is no preparation necessary.
Courses: This talk is primarily designed for adults seeking foundational professional learning about the digital world, but it is also suitable for older students. Relevant course settings include: Computer Science, Human Geography, Environmental Science, and Global Studies.