Environmental impact of EdTech: The hidden costs of digital learning
Keywords:
EdTech, educational technologies, digital learning, environmental impact, environmental consequences, energy consumptionSynopsis
The report "Environmental Impact of EdTech: The Hidden Costs of Digital Learning" highlights the often-overlooked environmental consequences of the expanding Educational Technology (EdTech) sector. While EdTech is frequently associated with reducing paper usage and promoting remote learning, the report emphasizes the significant environmental costs linked to the production, consumption, and disposal of digital devices. Key challenges include the energy consumption of data centers, the carbon footprint of AI-driven technologies, and the growing issue of electronic waste, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities.
The authors advocate for integrating sustainability into the EdTech ecosystem by adopting environmentally conscious practices in both hardware and software development. By summarizing a large set of research and grey literature, the authors stress the importance of evaluating EdTech's carbon footprint, using renewable energy sources, and developing eco-friendly content that educates learners about environmental issues. The report also calls for collaboration across sectors and the need for global standards and certifications to ensure that EdTech contributes to both educational excellence and environmental sustainability. By aligning digital transformation with green practices, EdTech can play a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable future.
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