Editing Emerging Research Directions (section)

=== System-Level Coordination and Policy Frameworks ===
A holistic perspective that spans hardware, network, and orchestration layers has been pivotal in advancing carbon footprint reduction. Chiang et al. and Yang and Li introduced integrated edge–fog–cloud architectures, showing how workload migration across geographically distributed nodes can leverage variations in carbon intensity [16][17]. Qiu et al. and Nguyen et al. developed adaptive networking protocols to reduce base-station energy consumption, such as utilizing sleep modes during off-peak periods or coordinating workload consolidation across neighboring edge gateways [18][19]. These system-wide efforts are increasingly driven by AI-based methods, where machine learning algorithms predict resource utilization or carbon intensity to trigger proactive power management [20][21].

Policy and regulation also play a crucial role. White et al. underscored the need for standardized carbon footprint metrics in edge infrastructures [22], while Gao et al. examined regional regulations enforcing minimum energy efficiency levels for gateways and micro data centers [23]. Johnson et al. explored how carbon credits or tax benefits can incentivize low-power chipset adoption, and Schaefer et al. investigated the impact of green certifications on consumer purchasing behaviors [24][25]. Devic et al. integrated eco-design principles, such as modular battery packs and real-time energy monitoring, to extend hardware life and reduce e-waste [26].