As we advance in the digital age, it becomes increasingly evident the deep integration of technology into all aspects of our lives. However, this progress brings with it a series of critical questions about its impact on the environment. In this article, we will explore how modern technology has become a two-way street: on the one hand, it offers powerful solutions to global problems; On the other hand, it contributed significantly to the current ecological crisis. To understand the complexity of this quest, it is essential to analyze the different facets of technological sustainability. This includes not only the efficient use of resources, but also the entire life cycle of technological products, from their manufacturing to their final disposal. As a result, we face a dilemma: can an industry that evolves rapidly and demands more and more resources be truly sustainable? (UNEP), it is estimated that approximately 53.6 million metric tons of electronic waste (e-waste) were generated globally in 2019. This number is expected to increase to 74 million metric tons by 2030. The production of electronic devices involves intensive extraction of minerals and precious metals, many of them quais They are scarce and difficult to obtain without causing significant environmental damage.

In comparative terms, we can observe how the growth of e-lixo contrasts with the initiatives to promote a circular economy. Instead of continuing to use linear systems that encourage consumption and planned obsolescence, some companies are beginning to implement models in which electronic components can be repaired, recycled and reused. Isso raises the question: are these measures sufficient in the face of uncontrolled growth in technological consumption?

Impact of Energy Use

The energy crisis of our technology industry is another critical factor that deserves analysis. The infrastructure necessary to support services such as new weapons requires huge amounts of energy. A study carried out by Greenpeace indicates that global data centers consume approximately 1-2% of total global energy. Still, many large technology companies have made public commitments to the use of renewable energy, but these promises must be analyzed with caution. 2030Amazon65%100% até 2025Microsoft100%Lixo zero até 2030

Despite the efforts of influential companies, it is pertinent to say that these commitments are not always translated in concrete actions. The fact that many technology companies will be adopting more ecological practices does not alter the underlying reality of excessive use and systematic disposal associated with the short life cycle of their products.

Climate Changes and Natural Resources

as Climate change on critical levels, it is clear that technology can be both part of the problem and part of the solution. For example, renewable energy technologies effectively demonstrate their potential to mitigate some of the effects caused by excessive dependence on fossil fuels. However, we must also consider how these technologies are only manufactured using limited resources. Lithium, necessary for modern batteries, presents environmental challenges in processes such as extraction. Likewise, some innovations seek to break this vicious cycle. The development of batteries less dependent on lithium or of totally new technologies that operate without heavy metals are examples that show how the technological sector seeks to adapt to these environmental challenges. A final reflection: We cannot deny the transformative power of modern technology; However, it is essential to adopt a critical approach in relation to its environmental impact. Otherwise, we run the risk of facing a future in which technological advances become an unsustainable burden for our planet. It is the responsibility of both consumers and producers to constantly question the legacy we are leaving for future generations.