With Big Data comes Big Responsibility... but do we fully grasp the ethical and societal implications?
Environmental Challenges
Big Data relies on large data centres, consuming vast amounts of electricity and water. This poses a dilemma
for companies, pushing them to adopt eco-friendly alternatives to avoid contributing
to climate change. Currently, global data centres contribute to 1-1.5% of the
world's energy use(IEA, 2023).
Companies like Google aim to use
100% carbon-free energy by 2030, this is a step in the right direction.
However, with the rapid growth and demand of Big Data, the question arises: Can
Google and other companies achieve this ambitious goal? Let me know your opinions
in the comments!
Privacy concerns
More and more companies are asking for your personal data, this raises the question what are they doing with it, what do they do with it afterwards?
Facebook is an infamous example of a company that acted unethically where they have sold millions of users data that was used for political advertising or so we were led to believe.
This case comes with a silver lining as we now have updated regulations on data protection where companies have to ensure that you give your consent through the acceptance of cookies which sounds very harmless and most people will accept them without reading what they are and what they consent to!
Privacy with big data is a challenge for both companies and people where a balance of how much data should be collected to remain competitive while respecting the rights of your users.
Data Security
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A data breach can lead to identity theft, fraud and discrimination. Encryption of the data is the key to making data safer.
If you like to find out more check out this article here!
I hope you have enjoyed my post about Big Data I would like to know your opinions in the comments!
Super interesting!
ReplyDelete-Jenna