Unit 4.

3 Environmental

Why This Matters

The digital devices we use every day—smartphones, laptops, and even the servers powering the
internet—rely heavily on natural resources like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth metals. These resources
are extracted from the earth, often at great environmental and social cost. At the same time, the energy
required to power our digital lives and the waste generated by discarded electronics contribute to
pollution and environmental degradation.

But the impact of digital technologies goes beyond our devices. From smart cities and precision farming
to global data networks, digital advancements are reshaping how we interact with the planet. How do
these technologies affect natural resources, ecosystems, and urban environments? And what can we do
to ensure that the digital age is sustainable?

Natural Resources and Ecosystems

Use and Distribution of Natural Resources in Digital Systems and Devices

The digital devices you use every day—smartphones, laptops, and even the servers that run the
internet—depend on natural resources. Rare earth metals like lithium, cobalt, and tantalum are critical
for batteries, microchips, and other components. However, these resources are unevenly distributed
across the globe, creating economic and environmental challenges.

Lithium: A critical component of rechargeable batteries, lithium is primarily mined in Chile, Australia,
and China.

Cobalt: Found mostly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, cobalt mining often involves hazardous
working conditions and unethical practices.

Note

The uneven distribution of resources can lead to geopolitical tensions, exploitation, and environmental
degradation in resource-rich countries.

Protection and Threats to Ecosystems and Biodiversity

However, digital technologies can also play a role in protecting ecosystems:

Drones: Used to monitor wildlife, track deforestation, and combat illegal logging.

AI and Big Data: Analyze environmental patterns to predict and prevent threats like poaching or illegal
fishing.

Example

In one case, AI-powered systems have been deployed to track illegal fishing in marine reserves, helping
to protect ocean biodiversity.

Natural Events and Disasters

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and wildfires can devastate ecosystems and disrupt
digital infrastructure. Yet, digital technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and early
warning systems help mitigate these impacts by improving disaster preparedness and response.

Tip

GIS combines spatial data with real-time information, making it an invaluable tool for disaster
management and recovery efforts.

Pollution and Waste: The Dark Side of Technology

Recycling and Waste Management

E-waste, or electronic waste, is one of the fastest-growing waste streams worldwide. Discarded
smartphones, laptops, and other devices often end up in landfills, releasing harmful substances like lead
and mercury into the environment.
Recycling: Programs that recover valuable materials like gold, copper, and rare earth metals from e-
waste can reduce the need for new mining.

Challenges: Many devices are not designed for easy recycling, making the process inefficient and costly.

Common Mistake

Many people mistakenly dispose of electronics in regular trash bins, contributing to environmental
pollution and missed recycling opportunities.

Types of Pollution

Digital systems contribute to various types of pollution:

Air Pollution: Emissions from manufacturing plants and data centers.

Water Pollution: Contamination from mining operations and improper disposal of e-waste.

Solid Waste: The accumulation of e-waste in landfills.

Noise Pollution: The constant hum of servers and urban digital infrastructure.

Light Pollution: Excessive use of digital screens and urban lighting that disrupt ecosystems.

Hint

Consider how the energy consumption of your devices indirectly contributes to pollution through
electricity generation.

Green Computing, E-Waste, and Planned Obsolescence

Green computing focuses on designing energy-efficient systems to minimize environmental impact.

Planned obsolescence is like buying a car that’s designed to break down after three years, forcing you to
purchase a new one.

Cities, Infrastructures, and Built Environments: Designing for the Future

Design and Use of Urban Spaces and Cities

Smart cities aim to use technology to improve urban living while promoting sustainability. Examples
include:

Smart Grids: Systems that optimize energy distribution and reduce waste.

IoT Sensors: Devices that monitor air quality, traffic flow, and energy use.

However, over-reliance on technology can create vulnerabilities, such as cyberattacks on critical

Local and Regional Infrastructures

Digital infrastructure—such as broadband networks and data centers—is essential for modern
economies. However, building and maintaining this infrastructure requires significant natural resources
and energy.

Theory of Knowledge

How can societies balance the need for digital infrastructure with its environmental costs?

Transportation and Wayfinding: Maps, GPS, and GIS

Digital tools like GPS and GIS have transformed transportation and urban planning. By optimizing routes
and improving public transit systems, these tools help reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Example

Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft use GPS to match passengers with nearby drivers, reducing the
number of cars on the road and lowering emissions.

Agriculture: Feeding the World with Technology

Agricultural Production and Distribution

Digital technologies are revolutionizing agriculture by improving efficiency and sustainability:

Precision Farming: Sensors and drones monitor crop health and optimize resource use, reducing waste.

Supply Chain Management: Digital tools track food from farm to table, minimizing spoilage and
improving distribution.

Note

Despite these advancements, access to digital tools in agriculture remains limited in many developing
countries, exacerbating global inequalities.

Reflection and Broader Implications

As you’ve explored, digital technologies are deeply intertwined with natural resources, ecosystems, and
human environments. But these advancements come with trade-offs. How can we ensure that
technology serves both humanity and the planet? Reflect on these questions:

Self review

In what ways do digital systems contribute to environmental challenges like pollution and resource
depletion?

How can technology be leveraged to protect ecosystems and promote sustainability?

Theory of Knowledge
To what extent should governments regulate the environmental impact of digital technologies, and how
can this balance with fostering innovation?