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Impacts of Digital Technology (E-Waste (Huge problem around the world,…
Impacts of Digital Technology
E-Waste
Huge problem around the world
Technology often not sent to landfill because it is not working but because it has been outdated by new, improved technology
Toxic chemicals such as lead, arsenic and cadmium can leach into the soil over time. Then as rain washes it away, rivers and water supplies can be contaminated.
As a result most countries in the developed world have introduced strict regulations to prevent e-waste being dumped into landfill. Electronic components now have to be recycled.
In order to get around this, some countries have been sending their e-waste to less economically developed regions around the world where the regulations aren't as strict.
Sustainability
This raw materials that are in our devices have to be processed, refined, transported and shaped into each component.
To be more sustainable you should:
Reduce
Reducing the amount of waste produced is fairly easy to do personally - just buy less stuff, and throw less away!
Reuse
Just because you are done with your mobile phone or computer doesn't mean that nobody else has a use for it. It's easier than ever to find someone willing to buy second-hand computer peripherals and devices using the internet, giving devices a new lease of life with a new owner.
Recycle
Those materials can then be recycled into new products.
Energy Use
Another effect of computer systems on the environment is the sheer amount of electricity used to power up the billions of computers around the world.
The rise of social networking and handheld computers such as tablets and mobile phones has led to a much higher daily use of electricity by the average person.
Tech reducing Energy use
Many modern buildings have computer controlled systems in place that reduce the amount of energy they use.
Solar panels to reduce the amount of electricity from the national grid
Energy monitoring displays to help staff know what is using up the power
Low energy LED lighting controls
Water conservation systems to re-use water, especially in industrial factories
Smart meters to help people at home keep track of their energy usage