Everyone knows the basic ways to reduce environmental impact. Some of the facts are recycling plastic and aluminum, walking or taking public transport, turning off the lights when leaving a room, and unsubscribing from junk mail. However, there is much more to do when it comes to our tech devices to be more sustainable.
Sustainability is a broad concept. Experts suggest looking at what tech products we buy and how we use the devices. It is to note that small changes can make a significant impact. Below are six strategies to help in using gadgets more sustainably:
1. Understand Your Carbon Footprint
Data reveals that average US citizen has a yearly carbon footprint of 16 tons. It is four times compared to the global rate. It is important to assess our own impact on sustainability. Gartner analyst Ed Anderson emphasized the importance of understanding what sustainability means to us personally. He suggests utilizing tools to estimate carbon footprint based on our lifestyle. Carbon footprints should also be estimated in travel habits, vehicle use and diet.
2. Recycle Your Devices Properly
Recycling old devices should be straightforward. Many don’t know where to dispose old gadgets and this leads to increasing electronic waste (e-waste). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that e-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream in America. There are several retailers and manufacturers which offers recycling programs.
Several companies offer convenient options to reduce e-waste. Best Buy is one of the best platforms. It accepts up to three electronics per household per day for recycling. The initiative allows consumers to responsibly dispose of old gadgets including smartphones, computers and gaming consoles. It will contribute to environmental sustainability without hassle.
Amazon provides an alternative through its trade-in program under the name Amazon Trade-In portal. Users can exchange eligible devices for Amazon gift cards. It will be easier for them to upgrade to new products and simultaneously ensure that old electronics are recycled responsibly. The program encourages users to participate in sustainable practices.
Samsung too extends its commitment to sustainability. It has e-waste collection sites in all the 50 states in the US. Samsung Experience Stores has partnered with uBreakiFix for the purpose. Consumers can drop off used tech products for proper recycling. The initiative supports environmental conservation efforts and simultaneously ensures electronic waste is handled responsibly.
Apple offers comprehensive recycling solutions under trade-in program. Customers can trade in Apple-owned brand device and receive credit toward new purchases. The service includes free recycling of old devices. Hence, the move reinforces Apple’s commitment to reduce environmental footprint.
The initiatives by Best Buy, Amazon, Samsung and Apple provide consumers with simple options to dispose electronic waste. Individuals can contribute to environmental sustainability and potentially benefit from incentives in the form of gift cards or credits toward new purchases.
3. Upcycle Your Devices
We can also consider upcycling the old and outdated devices. This can give them a new life. The Galaxy Upcycling Program from the house of Samsung allows to repurposing old Samsung phones for new uses. It is facilitated through the Samsung SmartThings app. Upcycling can be used for educational and medical purposes too. It can provide affordable screening devices for the visually impaired.
Apps like Alfred is for non-Samsung phone user. It can turn old phones into security cameras and such devices.
4. Become an Educated Consumer
Sustainability is not just about doing the right things. It is also about supporting the right companies. It is suggested to research the companies before making purchases and ensure that they prioritize sustainability. Many companies have made net-zero pledges. Some of the companies to name here are HP, Logitech and Philips.
Moreover, it is suggested to consider that the products are made with recycled materials. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra includes 12 components made from recycled material. The iPhone 14 Pro features 100% recycled gold and rare earth elements.
5. Utilize Smart Home Automations
Smart home devices can make home more energy-efficient. Yes, it is true. Smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee can adapt heating and cooling based on who is in the house. It significantly reduces energy consumption. It helps in reducing nearly 50% of energy use in the US. Hence, it can be said that the devices can help in reducing energy use as well as utility bills.
6. Avoid Unnecessary Upgrades
Do note that constantly upgrading to the latest tech is not sustainable. Mark Newton, head of North America corporate sustainability at Samsung, advises to use the devices as long as possible. It is important to consider whether a new device is truly necessary. It is better to repair and continue using the current one. If the latest model does not offer significant improvements, it might be more sustainable to skip the upgrade.
Verdict
This is a tech-driven world and sustainable gadget use goes beyond basic practices. Recycling and energy conservation should be the priority. Understanding and reducing carbon footprint are important. There are tools to assess personal impact and consumption choices. Moreover, proper disposal should be practiced through established recycling programs offered by retailers like Best Buy. It helps in reducing e-waste and also incentivizes responsible recycling.
Apart from all these, embracing upcycling options enhances sustainability efforts. We should make informed decisions and try to minimize unnecessary upgrades. It can pave the path to a greener future. The strategies reduce environmental impact and also promote a more sustainable tech ecosystem. It ensures that our gadgets contribute positively to global environmental goals.
