“Re-thinking the Metaverse Toward Ecological Futures: A-cosmic Immersive Virtual Worlds?” presented by Brouard, Allard, Ahn and Halloy
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This panel explores the intersection of ecological responsibility and digital creation, focusing on the sustainability and habitability of immersive virtual worlds. As digital technologies advance, the environmental impact of their design, infrastructure, and viability becomes a critical concern. Employing the concept of a-cosmia, panelists will discuss how to strive for the sustainability of digital universes, which are persistent yet fragile due to their material infrastructures and energy dependencies. In the context of the Anthropocene, this panel will examine the limitations of current digital infrastructures and propose new frameworks for creating desirable immersive virtual spaces. Topics include challenges related to equipment obsolescence, energy consumption and data extractivism as well as the potential of software eco-design and creation of desirable sustainable cosmogonies.
