The social and environemental impact of the Metaverse

The Metaverse is a new technology which has emerged in the last years with the arrival of Meta (new name of Facebook). However, it already existed before. A metaverse is a 3 dimensional version of the internet where you see, feel and live the experience. Theoretically, anyone can be anything in the metaverse. It is a world where you pay with real money (like dollars or bitcoin) to buy items for the game. Therefore, game like The Sims, Fortnite, or Second Life are metaverses.

According to Meta, Horizon Worlds, the name of Zuckerberg’s metaverse, will be ready in about 10 years, so not in such a long time from today. Many companies, such as Microsoft, Apple and Tik Tok have emphasized their research on the development of metaverses. It is relevant to research on the environmental and social impact of the metaverses as they are going to be part of our future world.

First, regarding the social impacts, it is difficult for everyone to access it, as you need a computer. The metaverse is supposed to bring closer many different people, from different generations, subsequently, having a computer is an issue. Elderly people, or people in need could face problems when having to buy this expensive type of technology. This creates a digital division, further exacerbating existing social inequalities. What is the point of this technology if it cannot fill its purpose to bring people together. Moreover, there is the question of isolation. Indeed, if the Metaverse may contribute to a sense of isolation and detachment from the physical world. Even if it aims to connect people, there is always the risk of replacing real-life social interactions with virtual ones. The metaverse could however, contribute bringing lonely people, or introverts together with new persons and create new encounters.

Furthermore, there are also environmental impacts which must be taken into account as the problem of global warming is now more important than ever. The metaverse relies heavily on energy consumption, particularly from data centres that power the virtual world. These data centers require substantial amounts of electricity to support the computing power needed for immersive virtual experiences. The energy demand of the metaverse could contribute to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change and further draining energy resources. This problem is real and need to be taken in account when developing such a technology.

In conclusion, while the metaverse offers exciting possibilities, it is essential to address the

environmental and social impacts associated with its development and use.

Léo Herve