Do we really need a tablet in addition to a computer and a smartphone? An ultra-powerful PC for simply entering Word and Excel files and Web surfing?
Being over-equipped concerns everybody! Watches, parasols, fridges, dog collars… connected objects have invaded our daily lives and require near-permanent connections. Too often purchased on the spur of the moment, in the end they are rarely used because they are not essential to our daily lives. Yet, their manufacture involves the consumption of a great deal of metal and they are difficult to recycle.
Certain characteristics and functions of our digital devices increase their environmental impact. This is the case with regard to high-definition cameras on smartphones, as well as the size of our screens: the bigger they are, the more resources they require and the more electricity they consume!
If, on reflection, you really do need to buy a new device, think about second-hand or reconditioned devices before turning to a new one. Opting for second-hand devices is more economical and environmentally-friendly!
34
34 is the average number of items of electrical and electronic equipment
that people think they own per household in France. But in reality, they own
almost 100!
Source : WEEE producer and retailer responsibility organisations in France (éco-organismes)
A NUDGE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
Who has never bought a device and then promptly forgotten about it in a cupboard? Joint borrowing, renting or purchasing are excellent alternatives to buying things that are rarely needed: for example overhead projectors, printers/scanners and residential gateways.
And even for everyday devices: telephones and computers can also be hired! A number of cooperatives, such as Commown, offer catalogues of more durable and repairable appliances, available for hire without an option to buy.
A few resources for further reading