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Caring for the Earth is caring for ourselves. In the tech world, different issues raise concerns about suitable gadgets. The rate at which energy is consumed, the waste accumulated from electronic devices, and the damaging pollutants released during production. Several efforts have been directed towards this cause, including technological innovations that aim to reduce our electronic waste (e-waste) and gadgets that use renewable energy. Various eco-friendly devices have been developed to address this issue.
Students are a vital population when it comes to the discussion of energy consumption because of their device use for education and leisure. Also, gadget use has been found to contribute about 3% to carbon emissions through their lifetime. Gadgets such as smartphones, laptops, and other electronics make up a major part of electronic waste from manufacturing, usage, and disposal. Here are 5 eco-friendly gadgets that reduce energy consumption and stand out as cool.
5 Eco-Friendly Gadgets For Students
Recycled Material Headphones and Earbuds
Headphones are a staple for students, providing privacy, comfort, and true leisure. A 2020 study found that 95% of college students use a PLD (personal listening device). Headphones are core to the lifestyle of most students, but conversely, this implies they are a major player in gadget carbon footprints. These devices help students promote eco-friendly practices in their community without sacrificing their premium sounds. A particular brand that prioritizes this is House of Marley, which offers varying headphones and earbud products. The legacy of Bob Marley inspires them; their goal is “to embody his passion for music and the environment.”
Eco-Friendly Laptops
A major way by which tech companies promote the health of the earth is by making devices with reusable or replaceable parts. Upgradable devices reduce the need to consume resources to make new ones. Students use laptops for assignments. Lenovo laptops are very popular and are sustainable, eco-friendly laptops. The ThinkPad L series comes highly recommended. With impressively low energy consumption (40% savings on operating costs) and high post-consumer recycled content (30%). Lenovo showed its commitment to reducing unrecyclable materials with the nearly 100% recyclable packaging. Also, the device uses a majority of post-consumer recycled content (PCC)—up to 30% for some aspects of the system, with an overall 18% PCC- ranking the highest of any laptop.
Eco-friendly E-reader
If a device were made for students, it would certainly be an e-reader. This innovative device allows students to come around with a library at their beck and call. Being a student means prioritizing education and research; e-readers make this experience soothing. Kobo Clara BW is one of the best at what it does, made with over 85% recycled plastic, including 10% ocean-bound plastic. The devices are magnet-free and made with FSC-certified recycled paper to further reduce waste, making them eco-friendly. Fascinatingly, they use replaceable batteries that ensure they don’t become waste easily.
Biodegradable Phone Cases
Being a learner isn’t always about holding a book. It also includes the fun of expression. Phone cases are one of the many ways people express themselves with color and design. Specifically for students who can depict their favorite themes and express their fun interests through them. But are there ways to stay green and cool? Absolutely, Pela Case is a great brand that makes phone cases with 100% compostable material (material that breaks down back to nature). Fun fact: they are the very first brand to achieve this. It’s a novel green solution that redefines possibilities like they say, “Beautiful Design, Without the Guilt.”
Solar-Powered Chargers
Lastly, chargers’ absence from this list will render it incomplete, as they are truly a student’s essential. With advancements in technology, the use of solar energy has become commonplace when building technological devices. Some of the devices built to utilize solar energy include the Anker 21W PowerPort Solar Charger, This charger has a foldable portable panel that allows you to charge most devices. Others include the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger and BLAVOR Solar Power Bank, among others. Eco-friendly phones here
As a student, you have to play your part in maintaining the health of the ecosystem. Prioritizing eco-friendly gadgets is a good way to contribute. Ensuring that you are self-conscious of your environment and constantly trying to sustain it is crucial to nation-building. We survive on the Earth’s resources. The best we could do was guard and replenish her.