Can We Really Be Green in a Tech-Driven World? Diving into “Sustainable” Technology

I’ve been pondering on the thought of sustainable technology and what we are currently experiencing when it comes to developing technology and its environmental impact. Daily, we use tools that were made with the purpose of making our lives easier. We walk around with personal computers, like our cellphones. There are smart devices that can adjust our lights and heat within our homes. Still, behind every piece of technology sits a larger question:

Can we truly be environmentally responsible while relying on tools that consume so much energy and produce so much waste? And to continue to build on this conversation, is sustainable technology actually possible?

Tech Helps the Planet, but Also Hurts It

We’ve seen tech companies try to present themselves as green pioneers. And they’ve proven that the benefits are real. Smart thermostats can reduce household energy use. Electric vehicles can reduce emissions. AI systems are now being used to track icebergs and identify pollution.

Unfortunately, these same tools that help the planet also come with environmental setbacks.