As World Environment Day approaches on 5 June 2024, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how our modern, tech-infused lifestyles impact the planet. From the devices in our homes, to the data centres powering online services, our digital lives leave an environmental footprint.
The growing e-waste problem
Each year, the UK generates over 1.6 million tonnes of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Old computers, monitors, printers, phones and TVs, contain hazardous materials like lead and mercury that can contaminate soil and water if not recycled properly. In 2019 the United Nations estimates globally over 50 million tonnes of e-waste is generated annually, weighing more than all commercial airliners ever made. The annual generation of e-waste is rising by 2.6 million tonnes annually, on track to reach 82 million tonnes by 2030.
Energy use and carbon footprint impact
Beyond the e-waste challenge, the energy consumption of digital technology also has a significant carbon footprint. Our internet-connected devices like laptops, smart TVs, and gaming consoles all require electricity, as do the networks, data centres, and server farms delivering online services.
Studies estimate ICT accounts for around 3.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions currently. While innovations in energy efficiency reduce emissions per unit of data transmitted, overall consumption continues rising as more people gain digital access and use data-intensive services like video streaming.
Cloud computing services with centralised, efficient data centres that scale as demand increases, continue to grow in popularity. A step in the right direction as smaller, older, and less efficient facilities increase the ICT carbon footprint. Promoting green energy sources, improved cooling techniques, and equipment upgrades can help mitigate emissions.
For the UK to meet net zero goals, addressing the energy usage of broadband networks supplying homes and connected devices will be essential. Improving home Wi-Fi router and smart device sleep mode efficiency alone, could positively impact energy bills and emissions.
Digital device lifespan and use habits
How long we use our laptops, phones, and other digital equipment before replacing them plays a key role in minimising waste and environmental impact. The UK government’s landmark Right to Repair Regulations, which requires manufactures of certain household items to make spare parts available, aims to promote longer product lifespans and easier fixing to reduce e-waste.
Many consumers still view the latest devices as must-have status symbols, fuelling a throw-away culture of discarding devices even before equipment fails. Being more conscious of purchasing choices, using buyback or trade-in programs, and seeking affordable local repairs all promote more sustainable digital device usage.
Meanwhile, the sharing economy and reuse markets provide alternatives to buying new products. Refurbished phones, laptops and tablets provide affordable ways to give equipment a second lease on life.
Durham County Council and WEEE
Durham County Council’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) initiative tackles electronic waste, aiming to reduce its environmental impact. Launched in 2018, the project gained national recognition for its success in providing residents with convenient options to recycle small electrical items and batteries.
Previously, residents faced challenges in disposing of these items sustainably. The council addressed this by significantly increasing the number of collection points across County Durham. By January 2024, the initiative had 186 collection points, making it easier than ever for residents to recycle responsibly. These points accept a variety of everyday electronics, including toasters, mobile phones, hairdryers, and even vapes, with dedicated pink bins for the latter.
The WEEE initiative goes beyond simply collecting e-waste. The council actively promotes the concept of a circular economy, where discarded materials are given a new life. Residents are encouraged to consider repairing electronics before resorting to recycling. The council even highlights resources for setting up “Repair Cafes” – community events that combine electronic repair workshops with social gatherings.
This initiative has proven to be a win-win for residents and the environment. Residents benefit from a convenient and responsible way to dispose of unwanted electronics, while the council diverts waste from landfills and contributes to a more sustainable future. The project’s national recognition stands as a testament to its effectiveness in tackling the growing issue of e-waste.
What UK consumers can do today
While systemic change may be gradual, UK households can embrace more sustainable digital habits starting now:
- Buy refurbished devices or keep equipment for longer before replacing.
- Use high-street repair shops rather than automatically replacing faulty items.
- Properly recycle unwanted electronics through WEEE take-back programs such as the one operated by Durham County Council.
- Adjust power settings to utilise sleep and low power modes.
- Optimise home networking for efficiency (newest Wi-Fi standard, routers).
- Avoid operating equipment at maximum performance levels when unnecessary.
World Environment Day serves as a reminder to embrace greener digital habits, we can build a thriving digital world that enriches lives without costing the Earth.
