How can technology be used to help the environment?

Modern technology and environmental care are often seen as colliding concepts. Technology is normally publicised to negatively affect the environment, from waste to the energy used to power devices. Yet, the relationship between technology and the environment is not as black and white as once thought. The industry has changed and developed to consider limiting its negative environmental effects or promoting an overall positive impact. By reviewing these current eco-products/procures can help current technology become synonymous with sound ecological practices. 

The new digital era 

The transition to a digital workspace has become a part of current practices. Many professions have switched from paper offices (notes, letters, and even payslips) to a more digital one. Paper has been linked to; deforestation, high energy use to be manufactured (i.e a paper bag uses 4 times the amount of energy to a plastic bag according to BBC news), and landfill waste (26% of waste in a landfill is paper-based). These factors attribute to the global impact of climate change. The rise in a digital workspace can positively contribute to the environment as it reduces the need for paper. 

Highlighting our non-eco ways 

The internet can be a place to share ideas, facts, and experiences. The rise of digital media with globalisation has allowed the eco-narrative to become a prominent discussion in mainstream media and pushed environmentalism to be a key concept in business/public practices. This online space has forced businesses to dedicate more time looking at their impact rather than purely concentrating on their profit. 

 IT technology has also embraced this "Green" ideal and search engine sites like Ecosia plant a tree with every search. 

Modern Apps 

Apps and subscription services may seem like the epitome of millennial tech. But, apps have been found to help the environment through the sharing economy. With the prominence of the virtual online space, there is less of a need for physical materials. Apps like Uber and Airbnb make it easier for people to travel and take advantage of free spaces without further demand for manufacturing/building new resources. Even subscriptions like Netflix or Amazon Prime will naturally reduce the need for physical materials, shipping, and space needed for DVD/VHS. 

Negatives and solutions 

Even though there is a positive relationship developing between the environment and technology, there are still procedures that have a negative effect. Recognising these faults can help us seek eco-solutions to minimise the harmful implications of modern tech. 

Waste 

As more and more technology is being made, it's important to dispose of the older tech in the most eco-friendly way. Most technology can be recycled, but in 2019 it was recorded that the UK generated the second most Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) in the world. Just in 2019, the UK produced 23.9kg per capita, which is the equivalent of 1.6 tonnes of WEEE. Not only this, but the economy could have saved £370 million if the old electricals were recycled, according to the WEEE sector body. E-waste not only ends up in UK landfills, but there is growing concerned about the exporting of waste to developing countries. To counter these effects, recycle your old technology, go to or contact your local Waste Management centre or donate your old electronics; One person's trash is another person's treasure. 

Energy 

All technology uses energy to run; even a simple online search can contribute 0.2 grams of C02. The move to a renewable energy source is the solution to help tackle this problem. From wind, solar, bioenergy to hydropower, there are many different power supply options for your business. According to the BBC, renewable energy in the UK (2020) surpassed the fossil fuel industry by generating 43% of the nation's power. This green initiative is further enforced by the UK Government who has set a legally binding target of zero net emissions by 2050.