Tech is part of our daily routines — good and bad. Here’s how to make it a bit more sustainable for your health and the planet.
In this digital age, technology is intertwined with our everyday lives. We use it for work, communication, entertainment, and so much more. However, with the increasing use of technology comes an increase in carbon dioxide production.
It’s time to take action and participate in sustainable behaviors to help reduce our impact on the planet. This can be something as simple as turning off your devices when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, or choosing eco-friendly tech options.
Another benefit of sustainable technology practices? They can make a difference, not just for the environment, but also for ourselves. From tracking screen time to utilizing public transportation and investing in eco-friendly gadgets, there are numerous ways in which we can shift our daily routines toward more sustainable habits. By doing so, we have the opportunity to not only reduce emissions but also benefit.
How can we use technology in a sustainable way?
There are quite a few simple ways to be more eco-friendly in your daily tech routine. These sustainable practices can help.
1. Track your screen time
The first step to take is to start tracking screen time. It is time to stop staring at the screen all day long (but after you finish reading this). Technology plays a part in our work and leisure activity, but at a certain point, it can become too much.
Begin by checking the time spent on the phone and then aim to minimize it by 30 minutes every week. Try to spend some time without straining your eyes. Perhaps reading a book, taking a walk, or keeping every form of screen aside before sleeping.
2. Download your faves
Streaming has become the standard method of consuming music. However, it is important to note that streaming the same album repeatedly emits a significantly higher amount of CO2 compared to downloading it once and storing it on your device.
While storage limitations may prevent downloading everything, it is worth considering saving your favorite playlists or go-to road trip albums. There is a downside — during the download, you may be exposed to cybersecurity risks. To reduce them, just download VPN and connect to a secure server. With VPN for Mac, you can download music securely and leave less carbon footprint, as well as save energy.
Also, pay attention to choosing the right service among all VPN apps. Now VeePN is gaining popularity — a new generation VPN with reliable protection and high-speed servers.
3. Utilize public transportation
When it comes to transportation, there are numerous eco-friendly options available made possible by technology. Instead of depending on cars, use public transportation apps to discover eco-friendly modes of transportation in your local community. For example, certain apps provide up-to-date transit details on bus and train timetables, bike-sharing initiatives, and even electric scooters, all of which serve as eco-friendly substitutes for cars.
4. Invest in eco-friendly gadgets
When shopping for new gadgets, take into consideration eco-friendly alternatives. For instance, smartwatches and fitness trackers lessen the reliance on disposable batteries, and many electronic manufacturers are actively striving toward more sustainable manufacturing practices in order to minimize their carbon footprint.
5. Reduce your paper consumption
Paper waste is identified as a major contributor to global pollution, adversely impacting the environment. The reduction of paper consumption holds the potential to substantially decrease carbon footprints.
Various strategies can be implemented to achieve this, such as utilizing software that eliminates the necessity of paper receipts, opting for online ticket booking rather than printing physical copies, and embracing e-books as alternatives to traditional paper books. And whenever required, use eco-friendly paper products such as recycled paper.
6. Bookmark the basics
Every time a user performs a Google search, thousands of results are loaded, contributing to additional CO2 emissions. However, a straightforward solution to reduce your carbon footprint would be to save frequently visited websites as bookmarks. This enables users to access their favorite sites directly with minimal loading time in between.
7. Reduce your Internet use
It is challenging to reduce internet use in this day and age, but with the right approach, entertainment can still be enjoyed without compromising the environment. You can continue watching movies and receiving a daily dose of music therapy while minimizing exposure to excessive radiation.
To achieve this, download movies and series instead of streaming them online. This helps limiting Internet usage and prevents late-night binge-watching. Another recommendation is to store files offline, preferably on a hard disk. Trustworthy sources recommend this method as it ensures data security and accessibility.
8. Green browsers
Switching to a more eco-friendly browser is an effortless way to make a positive impact while engaging in daily online activities. Sites such as Ecosia offer a free Chrome extension that allows users to contribute to tree-planting initiatives through search profits, resulting in an impressive count of 164 million trees planted and continuing to grow.
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