In today’s digital age, our everyday actions can impact the environment in significant ways. Our previous article on sustainable cladding discussed how architects are now considering the role of building materials in mitigating climate change. Innovative examples, such as using moss and planter bricks for cladding, show how something as foundational as building materials can actually contribute to reducing our carbon footprint. 

Just as architects challenge formalities to evolve with today’s climate, we also need to adopt a more sustainable approach to one of the most ubiquitous parts of modern life: our daily internet use. The Internet facilitates everything from communication and entertainment to education and business operations. However, its convenience comes at a significant environmental cost. Below, we take a closer look at how living digitally contributes to climate change.

The environmental impact of Internet use

Internet use has surged in recent years, with IBIS World expecting 97.7% of UK households to have Internet access in 2023. Each click, stream, and download requires energy, primarily from data centres that power access to the Internet. These centres, often relying on non-renewable energy sources, are significant contributors to carbon emissions. According to Carbon Literacy, writing an email alone sends 17 grams, at a minimum, of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Meanwhile, Netflix revealed that one hour of streaming on the service produces 100 grams of CO2 equivalent.

With all of that data considered, it’s unsurprising that the global Internet’s carbon footprint is estimated to amount to a staggering 1.6 billion tons of greenhouse gases annually. 

Switching to fibre for better efficiency

The ageing internet infrastructure exacerbates these emissions. Many regions rely on outdated copper-based networks, which are less energy-efficient than modern alternatives. The situation is worse in rural communities, with a county in Ceredigion, Wales, citing poor digital infrastructure as having compounded the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This outdated infrastructure not only limits access but also increases energy consumption due to inefficiencies.

In these cases, improving digital accessibility is crucial, but it is equally important to address the environmental impact of increased internet use. Balancing these needs requires adopting more sustainable technologies and practices. Upgrading your connection to full fibre broadband can be significantly more energy-efficient, as fibre-optic networks use 20-30% less energy than copper-based systems. These networks are not only faster and more reliable but also reduce the overall carbon footprint of internet use.

Choosing the right provider is also crucial. Fibre provider Zzoomm has emphasised its commitment to supporting the Government’s commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050 through adopting hybrid working practices, sustainable packaging for its products, and minimising waste in all its facilities. Other providers may have similar programmes, so consumers doing due diligence on these aspects is essential for creating a sustainable digital future.

Other lifestyle changes for sustainable digital living

While infrastructure upgrades are important, individuals can support a more eco-friendly switch to fibre by taking other steps to make their digital lives more sustainable. Here are three additional actionable strategies to start with:

Efficient data management

Our online habits can significantly impact our data usage. For instance, you can reduce streaming quality on YouTube when high resolution is not necessary. You can also turn off your camera during virtual meetings. A 2021 study from Purdue University found that going audio-only on Zoom reduces carbon emissions by up to 96%. Just one hour of videoconferencing or streaming emits 150-1,000 grams of carbon dioxide, requiring 2-12 litres of water and demanding a land area that’s about the size of an iPad Mini.

Optimise device use

Unplugging chargers, turning off power strips, and disconnecting unused devices are all simple measures that can save energy. You can also consider repairing instead of replacing malfunctioning parts of your device. If it’s unsalvageable, try opting for new, energy-efficient products. Newer appliances, for example, come with water and energy efficiency labels that aim to help reduce usage by 20% per person by 2038. For devices that connect to the Internet, make sure to maximise efficiency by using battery-saving features when possible.

Supporting policy changes

For a larger impact, you can also engage with local efforts to improve digital infrastructure sustainably. Promote awareness about sustainable digital practices among your friends and social circles while increasing your digital literacy to understand how your online activities impact the environment. 

By being mindful of our digital habits and supporting sustainable infrastructure, we can reduce the carbon footprint of our internet use. These actions, while small, can contribute to reshaping our world. In this way, we contribute to a more sustainable future while continuing to benefit from the conveniences of the digital age.