Breaking the circuit: How tech habits impact biodiversity
Source: RESET
In 2023, the UK generated over 46,557 tonnes of Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), according to Uswitch. Although estimates typically vary (and perhaps depend on what precisely is being counted and the methodology), these staggering figures nonetheless illustrate the pressing need to rethink our relationship with technology.
Technology is so fundamental to our daily lives that it may make sense to take several steps back to reflect on the environmental impact it can have. In the information age, assessing how much more digitised the world has become should stimulate anyone to question the relationship between modern tech usage and its overarching impact on biodiversity.
This article will examine some positive initiatives that can help tackle e-waste, promote responsible waste-management solutions and highlight the importance of biodiversity conservation.
The Continuing Challenge of E-Waste
E-waste - or discarded electronic appliances and other devices - is a rapidly growing problem. According to reports by the UN’s International Telecommunications Union (ITU), 62 million metric tonnes of e-waste were created in 2022 globally, with this figure predicted to rise by 32% by 2030. Of this, only 22.3% was documented as formally collected and recycled. As a result, the reported elevated piles of e-waste present an environmental issue of unprecedented proportions that requires urgent attention.
When broken down, e-waste is made up of broken, unwanted and outdated laptops, smartphones, tablets, TVs, and household appliances like dishwashers, washing machines and fridge freezers. Other waste comes from electronic toys, microwaves, e-cigarettes—and perhaps surprisingly—solar panels (however, some reports argue that photovoltaic panel waste is minimal when compared with other categories, with many health concerns about solar equipment unsubstantiated). Nonetheless, the tidal surge of tech waste is thanks to a trio of factors:
The uber-fast innovation of technology.
An ever-increasing consumption of electronic gadgets.
The dwindling lifespan of electronic goods in general.
Alongside the obvious over-consumption of electronic devices and reduced lifespan of items, environmentalists are analysing the components within the electronics that spill out as e-waste. To protect against additional harm to the planet and safeguard biodiversity, eco-friendly activists want to address the root of the challenge.
Therefore, humans must comprehend the potentially detrimental materials involved in manufacturing electronic products. These are mostly harmful substances, such as lead, mercury and cadmium, as well as more common materials like silver, aluminium and copper.
If these substances are not safely disposed of, their underlying toxicity can potentially enter and harm soil and water systems. Toxic leachate contaminates water sources, affecting wildlife that relies on natural reservoirs, while burning electronics releases harmful chemicals, degrading air quality and endangering birds and other species. This ultimately upsets the delicate balance of oceans and land while potentially posing substantial threats to the surrounding ecosystems and natural habitats, explored more in depth below.
Source: Reboot Tech
How E-Waste Affects Biodiversity
Furthermore, the relationship between e-waste and biodiversity is not always clear-cut, as a lot of electronic devices are disposed of in landfills or processed in informal recycling sectors. Whenever this occurs, toxic substances are released into the atmosphere with damaging consequences.
Metals and other pollutants from e-waste can alter soil chemistry, affect plant growth and disrupt their microorganisms. Thus, preserving microorganisms and maintaining the delicate balance of natural life cycles is essential for cultivating healthy ecosystems. Furthermore, toxic leachate from e-waste can contaminate both ground and surface water, impacting any wildlife dependent on natural water sources.
It is crucial to recycle electronic devices correctly and avoid burning them to recover metals. This process can release harmful chemicals into the air which will negatively affect air quality and may harm avian life. Plus, the mining of raw materials for new electronic devices further fragments and disrupts natural habitats and, in turn, directly impacts biodiversity in resource-rich areas.
Effective Strategies to Manage E-Waste
Challenges persist with efforts to mitigate and manage e-waste; however, the positive news is that increasing awareness of sustainable tech and how to dispose of it responsibly points towards a brighter future. Today, UN and governmental initiatives, advisory resources and corporate solutions can help us to control and improve the environmental impact of our tech-heavy lives.
Likewise, on a local level, notable efforts are being made to educate everyday consumers about correct e-waste disposal and the benefits of choosing eco-friendly gadgets and devices. For instance, authorities such as West Sussex County Council (among others) have dedicated e-waste facilities while other corporate entities offer helpful solutions to support companies across the nation.
Seek your local Tech Recycle centres from Charities and Non-Profits like Recycle & Re-Use Tech with Wiltshire Digital Drive | Closing the Digital Divide
Ingenious uses for Waste of all kinds from companies like Rubbish Ideas | Future Leap Hub, Bristol
Generally speaking, many businesses are switching to circular economy models, designing products to be inherently more long-lasting, repairable and recyclable. Others are encouraging and facilitating the exchange of used electronics, with one programme offered by photo and video equipment retailer MPB successfully recirculating 570,000 items every year, according to its 2024 Impact Report.
Meanwhile, the introduction of EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) for packaging policies has led businesses across the world to put more responsibility on manufacturers to provide a longer lifecycle for products. Concurrently, this has been aided by recycling and trade-in programmes, like the winners of the Blue Earth Summit REBOXED.
Furthermore—and perhaps rather paradoxically—technology itself is being used to aid biodiversity conservation initiatives and programmes; from wildlife monitoring systems to innovative apps that aid biodiversity research, technology is being leveraged more in conservation efforts and can positively influence future work.
Why We Should Question Our Use of Tech
In theory, the efforts being made, initiatives implemented, and policies introduced can contribute to raising awareness and making long-term changes. Nonetheless, any positive changes will take time to materialise. Today, we can still make a difference, even if it is a case of reflecting on our habits and their broader environmental implications.
We should ask whether we truly need the latest, up-to-date devices. Software updates, minor repairs and optimising our current gadgets and tech can extend their lifespan, meaning we do not have to discard unwanted or unusable items as often.
When we inevitably part with old devices, a small but significant effort could be to identify a local e-waste recycling facility, recycle the parts or consider a trade-in programme with a manufacturer to secure their proper disposal.
Reducing unnecessary data storage and optimising our digital files can also indirectly lower energy consumption and improve the runtime of our devices.
Engaging with apps and platforms that promote sustainable e-waste, conservation and biodiversity awareness can empower more people to use tech for a positive cause.
A Balanced Approach to Tech and Nature
As we reflect on our everyday digital habits, it is clear that the symbiotic relationship between biodiversity and technology is complex and challenging. There is no easy, straightforward answer to overcoming this issue; all we can do as individuals is make a positive difference wherever possible.
Our digital habits have undeniably contributed to global environmental challenges; however, halting our use of technology altogether would create additional issues for our jobs, hobbies and daily lives. Instead, a more thoughtful approach to technology use is essential for making meaningful progress: exploring sustainable recycling methods and repairing devices can also significantly impact our environmental footprint.
Everyone—individuals, businesses, and policymakers—has a role to play in this effort. Together, we can make informed choices and embrace sustainable practices. To learn more about investing in a low-carbon future and revitalising biodiversity, reach out to 9Trees today.
Check back in for an upcoming related blog on the circular economy!
By Annie Button - Blog writer and Conservation Communicator
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