How 'memory crystals' could slash data emissions

illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on BBC or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Scientists are developing ultra-durable “memory crystals” and DNA-based storage to curb soaring data centre emissions
• Laser-etched glass can store up to 360TB on a 5-inch disk and potentially last thousands of years
• DNA could theoretically store 215 petabytes per gram, with minimal energy needed for preservation

🔭 The context: Data centres already consume ~1.5% of global electricity, with demand projected to double by 2030
• Up to 80% of stored data is “cold” archival data that rarely needs access but still requires energy-intensive cooling
• Emerging storage technologies aim to eliminate continuous power use for long-term retention

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Data centres could emit 2.5 billion tonnes of CO₂e by 2030
• Energy-free archival storage could significantly cut cooling demand and electronic waste
• Reducing “cold data” energy loads may lower the carbon footprint of AI, cloud computing and digital infrastructure

⏭️ What’s next: Commercial pilots of glass storage may begin within years, while DNA storage awaits major cost breakthroughs

💬 One quote: “We saw light scattering in a way that seemed to defy the laws of physics.” — Prof. Peter Kazansky

📈 One stat: Data centre electricity use is projected to double by 2030

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