Environmental Issues

Environmental issues are the effects that technology has on the natural world. Digital technology affects the environment in three main ways: the energy it uses, the materials needed to make devices, and the waste created when equipment is thrown away.

Energy and raw materials

Every device needs electricity to run and to charge, and the data centres that store and send data use a great deal, because their servers must run and be kept cool. If that electricity is generated by burning coal or gas, it releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Making devices also needs raw materials such as copper, gold and rare metals, which have to be mined and transported. Mining and transport use energy and water, and can damage habitats.

E-waste

When equipment is replaced, the old devices become e-waste. They contain metals that can be recovered and used again, so recycling saves resources, but e-waste that is not recycled safely can pollute soil and water.

Benefits

Technology can also reduce harm to the environment. Reading and sharing documents electronically instead of printing them uses less paper, so fewer trees are cut down, and an online meeting can replace a journey by car or plane. The overall effect depends on how the technology is used and on how its electricity is generated.