The Bigger Picture: Computing And The Environment Flashcards
Define Computing Technology
An all-encompassing term referring to the hardware, software, and infrastructure that underpin current and emerging computer systems
Define E-waste
any form of discarded electronic equipment, including computing technology
What is the impact that Manufacturing has on the environment?
From extraction of raw materials to shipping, it’s difficult to determine the overall environmental impact
What is the impact that Raw Material Extraction has on the environment?
- using non-renewable natural resources
- some metals used are in short supply
- other metals are a serious health risk by contaminating soil and groundwater
What social impacts does Raw Material Extraction have?
Poorly equipped miners can get long term respiratory illness or serious injury
What is the impact that Production has on the environment?
- large amounts of non-renewable fossil fuels are used during this process
- semiconductors are highly water intensive
- chemical emissions pose health risks
What is Cadmium used for?
the manufacture of rechargeable batteries, printer inks, and toners
What is Lead used for?
circuit boards and cable sheathing
What is Mercury used for?
LCD screens
What is the impact that Usage has on the environment?
- charging our devices can collectively take up lot of energy
- large amounts of electricity is needed to cool down servers
Define Carbon Footprint
the amount of carbon dioxide an individual or organization produces as a result of the energy they consume
What is the impact that Disposal has on the environment?
- e-waste is dumped in landfills, toxic substances can leak into the ground
- people living near these landfills are affected
