Watching series on the Internet is fun, but it also takes a lot of energy. This is not only reflected in the electricity bill, but also in the CO₂ balance. Herbert Schwarz is a consultant for energy and climate protection in the Starnberg District Office. In an interview, he explains how you can be considerate of the planet and your electricity bill when streaming.
Mr Schwarz, why is streaming series and films so harmful to the environment?
Streaming, i.e. retrieving data, is very energy-intensive because large server farms have to be operated for it. In addition, the data transmission requires a lot of energy. The share of electricity consumption caused by streaming is increasing noticeably. At the moment, most of the energy does not come from renewable sources, which is why fossil fuels are used, which are very harmful to the climate.
How much energy does streaming a movie use?
There is a clear conversion, the emission is comparable to a one and a half kilometer drive. However, I think that is a little too tight.
Is streaming in wifi more energy-saving than on the go via the cellular network?
According to a study by the Federal Environment Agency, it should not be streamed over the mobile network if possible. Because the greatest emissions are caused by loading data on the go, releasing around 90 grams of carbon dioxide per hour. It is better to access videos and films via WLAN or a LAN cable connection – for example via copper cable or fiber optics, which is the most economical option with two grams of CO₂ per hour.
Energy prices have risen sharply recently. What tips do you have for bargain hunters in this context?
As I said, you should connect your television, computer or tablet to the network with a cable. It is also good to forego the Ultra HD resolution. The difference can usually not be seen with the naked eye – and only about a tenth of the data volume is then used. Another tip would be to unsubscribe from annoying newsletters that are not read. In this way, data is not transmitted in the first place – that of course saves energy.
What does this topic have to do with the energy transition? The energy transition means switching to renewable energies as quickly as possible. To make the switch easier, energy should also be saved. Everyone can make their contribution relatively easily.
More information on saving energy at www.lk-starnberg.de/energiesparchecks