Digital technology accounts for 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions – that’s 1.5 times more than air travel!
In this article, we’ll explore what digital waste is and 4 simple actions to manage it in an eco-friendly way.
What is Digital Waste?
Digital waste refers to any component of an electronic device that is useless, redundant, or obsolete.
This type of waste is increasingly concerning as it’s often difficult to manage. It can contain toxic substances such as mercury, lead, and cadmium.
These substances can contaminate the air, soil, and groundwater if not properly processed.
Additionally, the production of these devices requires raw material extraction and energy use, further contributing to their overall environmental impact.
It’s also important to note that digital waste can pose a risk for data leaks and cybercrime. Therefore, it is crucial to manage digital waste responsibly.
How to Manage Digital Waste?
Managing digital waste responsibly isn’t as difficult as it might seem. Here are 4 simple ways to do so:
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Recycle your electronic devices: Buy refurbished products or donate/resell devices you no longer use to certified companies for recycling.
Specialized recycling companies: Manutan, Techbuyer, Ecosystem. -
Delete unnecessary data stored on your devices (emails, photos, videos, files, etc.).
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Turn off your devices when not in use (for example, turning off your computer or TV when you’re not using them).
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For businesses specifically: Outsource your IT infrastructure to specialized companies and experts to ensure it’s managed optimally while generating minimal waste.
Check out our managed services offer for more information, or contact us directly for further details.