CacheCrab2
Well-known member
A striking new exhibition in London aims to raise awareness of the devastating impact that our increasing reliance on technology is having on the planet. The show, which features stunning visuals and thought-provoking works, highlights the effects of fast tech on iconic landmarks around the world, from Venice to Iguazu Falls.
The project, which was developed with Professor Mark Maslin of University College London, uses climate modelling to predict the damage that could be caused by climate change at each location by the end of the century. The results are not meant to be taken as predictions, but rather as a warning about the urgent need for change.
According to Maslin, the environmental impact of our tech addiction is staggering - 6% of the human-driven climate crisis, and double that of the aviation industry. This may come as a shock to many people who assume that their daily use of gadgets has no significant impact on the planet.
However, the reality is far more sinister. The mining of materials like tantalum, cobalt, and tin for our phones and devices has serious social and environmental consequences, while e-waste releases toxic chemicals into the air, soil, and water when incinerated or dumped improperly.
The EU has recently introduced legislation to curb built-in obsolescence, with rules for universal chargers and a ban on manufacturers blocking third-party parts. But tech companies are pushing back, arguing that this is an interference in the free market.
Meanwhile, the UK has had regulations in place since 2021, but concerns remain about their effectiveness. As one expert put it, "Our research shows that people recognize the changes happening around them, but many still don't see how their everyday choices connect to the bigger picture."
In short, our addiction to technology is having a devastating impact on the planet. By changing our behavior and choosing longevity over landfill, we can make a real difference.
So what can you do? Here are five simple ways to reduce your carbon emissions:
* Find a piece of tech you're comfortable with and keep it
* Remember that your mobile phone contains precious materials that should be reused rather than thrown away
* Sell your old phones and devices to reputable reuse shops or via peer-to-peer sales
* Keep your phone battery at between 20-80% for optimal life
* Keep your device clean and remove dust from charging ports
The exhibition runs until November 17th at the Last Shot Gallery in Fitzrovia, central London.
The project, which was developed with Professor Mark Maslin of University College London, uses climate modelling to predict the damage that could be caused by climate change at each location by the end of the century. The results are not meant to be taken as predictions, but rather as a warning about the urgent need for change.
According to Maslin, the environmental impact of our tech addiction is staggering - 6% of the human-driven climate crisis, and double that of the aviation industry. This may come as a shock to many people who assume that their daily use of gadgets has no significant impact on the planet.
However, the reality is far more sinister. The mining of materials like tantalum, cobalt, and tin for our phones and devices has serious social and environmental consequences, while e-waste releases toxic chemicals into the air, soil, and water when incinerated or dumped improperly.
The EU has recently introduced legislation to curb built-in obsolescence, with rules for universal chargers and a ban on manufacturers blocking third-party parts. But tech companies are pushing back, arguing that this is an interference in the free market.
Meanwhile, the UK has had regulations in place since 2021, but concerns remain about their effectiveness. As one expert put it, "Our research shows that people recognize the changes happening around them, but many still don't see how their everyday choices connect to the bigger picture."
In short, our addiction to technology is having a devastating impact on the planet. By changing our behavior and choosing longevity over landfill, we can make a real difference.
So what can you do? Here are five simple ways to reduce your carbon emissions:
* Find a piece of tech you're comfortable with and keep it
* Remember that your mobile phone contains precious materials that should be reused rather than thrown away
* Sell your old phones and devices to reputable reuse shops or via peer-to-peer sales
* Keep your phone battery at between 20-80% for optimal life
* Keep your device clean and remove dust from charging ports
The exhibition runs until November 17th at the Last Shot Gallery in Fitzrovia, central London.