Chapter 24: Computing & The Environmental Impact Of Technology Flashcards
What impact does computing technology have on the environment?
Computing technology depletes non-renewable resources, generates e-waste, consumes energy, and can harm human health.
What are some non-renewable materials used in manufacturing computing devices?
Sand (for glass), oil (for plastics), metals like silver, gold, copper, and palladium.
What are the health risks associated with hazardous materials in computing devices?
Exposure can cause neurological damage, respiratory issues, and poisoning from radioactive metals.
How does mining for raw materials impact the environment?
It damages landscapes, contaminates water supplies, endangers wildlife, and exposes miners to dangerous working conditions.
Why does manufacturing computing technology consume a lot of energy?
It requires fossil fuels, generates CO2 emissions, and semiconductor manufacturing uses vast amounts of water.
What environmental issue is caused by semiconductor manufacturing?
High water consumption can lead to shortages and pollution from untreated wastewater discharge.
What is the EU Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive?
A regulation that restricts hazardous materials in computing devices to protect health and the environment.
How does energy consumption in computing devices compare to manufacturing?
The energy used to power devices and data centers daily exceeds the energy used in manufacturing.
What are some ways to improve data center energy efficiency?
Using renewable energy, better cooling techniques, and more efficient infrastructure.
What environmental issues are associated with e-waste disposal?
Toxic substances leak into soil and water, contaminating food and harming public health.
Why do people in developing countries try to recover metals from e-waste?
Gold, silver, and copper are valuable, but extraction without safety measures is hazardous.
What is responsible recycling?
Recovering valuable materials safely while properly disposing of hazardous substances.
How is computing technology helping to combat climate change?
By analyzing satellite data, monitoring sea levels, and studying glacier movements.
How do tsunami early warning systems work?
They use sensor networks to detect tsunamis and issue alerts for evacuation.
How is computing technology used in wildlife conservation?
GPS and satellites track animals, monitor ecosystems, and detect illegal activities.
What role do sensors play in energy efficiency?
They monitor room conditions and adjust electricity use to optimize efficiency.
How do solar farms use computing technology?
Sensors track the sun’s movement, and motors adjust panel positions for optimal energy generation.
