Are Cloud Services Good for the Environment?

Cloud computing is touted as a more flexible, scalable and cost-effective solution for cash-strapped, resource-constrained IT departments. But is there a “Green IT” angle to the cloud?

Datamation details the results of a new Microsoft-sponsored study that shows the benefits of cloud computing solutions in terms of energy savings and reductions in carbon emissions. Surprisingly, smaller businesses have the most to gain by a switch to cloud services.

A new study funded by Microsoft found that cloud computing uses less energy and releases significantly less carbon than running the same business applications on their own infrastructure.

According to Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) statements, the study results show that cloud services can potentially save 30 percent or more between energy savings and carbon emissions reductions.

Read the full story at Datamation:


Does Microsoft’s Cloud Computing Help the Environment?