Achieving Sustainability Goals with Edge Computing

Edge computing changes the way businesses gather, compute and store critical data. Instead of relying solely on centralized cloud servers, edge computing places computing resources at the “edge” of the network, nearer to devices and users. This proximity enables faster data processing and improved performance for a wide range of applications.

Beyond these main benefits, edge computing can also help businesses in all industries operate more sustainably. By optimizing energy usage, utilizing purpose-built hardware and leveraging zero-touch management, organizations can improve their operations while also reducing their environmental impact.

Optimizing energy consumption

Traditional centralized data centers consume vast amounts of energy, not just for processing, but also for cooling and data transmission. Edge computing fundamentally changes this paradigm. By processing data closer to its source, you can drastically reduce the amount of data that needs to be sent back to the core.

• Reduced network traffic: Less data traveling across networks means less energy consumed by routers, switches and long-haul connections.
• Localized processing: Performing computations at the edge reduces the workload on central data centers, leading to lower power consumption and cooling requirements.
• Smart data filtering: Edge devices can filter and pre-process data, sending only relevant information to the cloud or core. This minimizes unnecessary data transfer and storage, further reducing energy usage.

💡Consider implementing edge-based data analytics and filtering solutions. For example, in a manufacturing environment, edge devices can look at sensor data in real time. They send only important alerts to the central system instead of a constant stream of raw data.

This optimized energy consumption translates to lower operational costs, reduced carbon emissions and illustrates a more environmentally responsible image to the customer.

Making the most of your hardware

Edge computing enables enterprises to leverage existing hardware, extending its lifespan and minimizing e-waste. By processing data on smaller, more efficient devices, edge computing reduces the need for frequent hardware upgrades, therefore handling massive data traffic more effectively.

• Distributed workloads: Edge deployments can utilize a wider range of hardware, including smaller, less power-hungry devices, and even repurpose legacy equipment.
• Resource optimization: Edge orchestration platforms can dynamically allocate resources based on demand, ensuring efficient utilization of hardware and preventing over-provisioning.
• Remote monitoring and maintenance: Edge platforms allow for proactive monitoring and remote troubleshooting. This reduces the need for on-site visits and extends the lifespan of hardware through timely maintenance.

Edge computing helps reduce carbon emissions by reducing the number of hardware replacements. Electronic devices can have a negative impact on the environment, primarily due to the massive amounts of electronic waste (e-waste) they generate. Maximizing hardware usage can help reduce the production of avoidable e-waste.

Cutting expenses and pollution with zero-touch management

Efficient management is key to sustainability. Edge computing, paired with zero-touch provisioning and automated management, streamlines operations and minimizes the need for on-site interventions and device maintenance.

• Automated deployments: Zero-touch provisioning lets you quickly and easily set up edge devices. This means you don’t need to do any manual setup or visit the site.
• Remote monitoring and updates: Centralized management platforms let you remotely monitor, fix problems and update software. This minimizes the need for staff travel to device sites and reduces the carbon footprint of IT operations.
• Predictive maintenance: AI-powered analytics can predict potential hardware failures and schedule proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and optimizing resource utilization.

Zero-touch management at scale, combined with built-in automation, means your team can run leaner and focus on innovations that contribute directly to your bottom line with a lower impact on the environment.

Achieving your edge sustainability goals with SUSE

At SUSE, we are committed to supporting organizations in their pursuit of sustainability through robust edge infrastructure solutions. Our open source ethos drives us to manage risk, create value and deliver measurable impact on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues.

SUSE is an active contributor to open source projects like Linux Foundation Europe’s Project Sylva and Margo, an initiative hosted by the Linux Foundation, focused on streamlining IT infrastructure operations across multiple industries and interests. The Margo initiative proposes a new open standard for interoperability within industrial automation; this interoperability means manufacturers can optimize their operations with fewer machines, thus minimizing emissions.

The SUSE Edge Suite is also optimized to help organizations achieve their sustainability goals with:

• Simplified operations at scale: SUSE Edge leverages SUSE Rancher Prime, a leading Kubernetes management solution known for its ease of use and robust security features. SUSE Rancher Prime enables efficient management of edge deployments across diverse environments.
• Accelerated deployments: Utilizing GitOps and CNCF’s Cluster API, SUSE Edge facilitates rapid and consistent deployment of Kubernetes clusters. This streamlined approach minimizes energy consumption during deployment processes.
• Unified management: SUSE Edge provides a single pane of glass for managing Linux and Kubernetes, reducing operational costs and administrative overhead. This unified approach enhances lifecycle operations and extends the lifespan of hardware.
• Zero-touch provisioning: SUSE Edge simplifies onboarding with zero-touch provisioning, eliminating the need for on-site technical staff. This automated process minimizes travel and energy consumption, allowing for efficient and sustainable deployments.

By partnering with SUSE, organizations can leverage the power of edge computing to achieve their sustainability goals while driving operational excellence.

To see how SUSE can support your enterprise, learn more about our edge solutions.