About this episode
For this 100th episode of Environment Variables, guest host Anne Currie is joined by Holly Cummins, senior principal engineer at Red Hat, to discuss the intersection of AI, efficiency, and sustainable software practices. They explore the concept of "Lightswitch Ops"—designing systems that can easily be turned off and on to reduce waste—and the importance of eliminating zombie servers. They cover AI’s growing energy demands, the role of optimization in software sustainability, and Microsoft's new shift in cloud investments. They also touch on AI regulation and the evolving strategies for balancing performance, cost, and environmental impact in tech. Learn more about our people:Chris Adams: LinkedIn | GitHub | WebsiteHolly Cummins: LinkedIn | GitHub | WebsiteFind out more about the GSF:The Green Software Foundation Website Sign up to the Green Software Foundation NewsletterNews:AI Action Summit: Two major AI initiatives launched | Computer Weekly [40:20]Microsoft reportedly cancels US data center leases amid oversupply concerns [44:31]Events:Data-driven grid decarbonization - Webinar | March 19, 2025The First Eco-Label for Sustainable Software - Frankfurt am Main | March 27, 2025 Resources:LightSwitchOps Why Cloud Zombies Are Destroying the Planet and How You Can Stop Them | Holly CumminsSimon Willison’s Weblog [32:56]The GoalIf you enjoyed this episode then please either:Follow, rate, and review on
