Environmental Effects (OCR A Level Computer Science) : Revision Note

Environmental Effects

What are environmental effects of computers?

• The environmental effects of computers, including their disposal and energy use, have far-reaching moral, social, ethical, and cultural implications

• As technology becomes an integral part of modern life, addressing these implications is essential to ensure responsible and sustainable use of computers

E-waste

• Electronic waste, or e-waste, refers to discarded electronic or electrical devices

• Improper disposal of these devices can lead to serious environmental and health problems due to the toxic elements they contain, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium

• Here are some steps for proper e-waste disposal:

  • Reduce and Reuse: The initial step in e-waste management involves reducing the consumption of electronic goods and reusing devices as much as possible. This could mean repairing a device instead of replacing it or selling or donating devices that are still functional but no longer needed

  • Recycle: If an electronic device can't be reused, the next best option is recycling. Many electronic devices contain valuable materials that can be recovered and used to manufacture new products

  • E-Waste Recycling Programs: Many manufacturers and retailers offer take-back programs where old electronics can be dropped off for recycling. Some cities also have e-waste collection events or facilities where old electronics can be brought

  • Disposal at Designated Facilities: If recycling is not an option, e-waste should be disposed of at designated facilities. These facilities are equipped to handle and dispose of these materials safely without causing harm to the environment

  • Follow Local Regulations: Different regions have different regulations for e-waste disposal. It's essential to follow these local regulations to ensure e-waste is disposed of legally and responsibly

  • Data Security: Before disposing of or recycling any device, all personal data should be erased to protect privacy

Moral implications

Environmental responsibility

• Embracing environmentally responsible practices, such as proper e-waste disposal and energy-efficient usage, is a moral duty to protect the planet for future generations

Social justice

• The impact of computer-related environmental effects is not evenly distributed across society

• Lower-income communities may bear a disproportionate burden of e-waste pollution and energy-related environmental issues

Social implications

Environmental equity

• Environmental equity is the fair distribution of environmental benefits and burdens among different social groups and communities

• It is a concept that seeks to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or cultural background, have equal access to a healthy and sustainable environment

Digital divide

• The digital divide refers to the unequal distribution of access to technology and the Internet among different communities, regions, and socioeconomic groups

• It represents a significant disparity in the availability and utilisation of digital resources, creating barriers to information, education, and economic opportunities

• The digital divide encompasses access to physical technology and the ability to use digital tools effectively

• Unequal distribution of access to energy-efficient technologies and recycling facilities can worsen social disparities, which is known as the digital divide

Ethical implications

Sustainability & stewardship

• Being ethical requires people to be responsible stewards of the environment and to adopt sustainable practices

• This includes reducing e-waste and minimising energy consumption

Transparency & accountability

• Ethical use of computers requires transparency in the environmental impact of technology and holding organisations accountable for their environmental practices

Environmental justice

• Ethical concerns arise when specific communities or cultures suffer disproportionately from the negative environmental effects of computer-related activities

Cultural implications

Cultural values & sustainability

• Cultures prioritising environmental preservation and sustainability may be at odds with practices that contribute to e-waste and energy-intensive computing

Digitalisation & cultural identity

• The increasing digitalisation of cultural artefacts and practices may raise questions about preserving cultural identity and heritage