Rethinking Our Digital Lives: Circular Economy Approaches for a Greener Internet

The internet is the invisible engine powering our daily lives, but its environmental impact is becoming increasingly hard to ignore. As our digital consumption grows, through streaming, cloud computing, and the proliferation of smart devices, so does the sector’s carbon footprint. Much of this impact is hidden from view, embedded in the manufacturing of our devices, the energy needed to run vast data centres, and the mounting challenge of electronic waste. To ensure our digital future is both innovative and sustainable, the tech sector is turning to circular economy principles.

A circular economy represents a fundamental shift from the traditional “take-make-dispose” model. Rather than treating products as disposable, the circular approach is about keeping devices, materials, and components in use for as long as possible. This means designing products for longevity and repairability, finding new life for used electronics through refurbishment and remanufacturing, and ensuring that, at the end of their useful life, devices are recycled responsibly so valuable resources can be recovered.

The internet’s environmental footprint is significant and growing. Current estimates suggest that digital technologies now account for up to 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, putting the sector on par with the aviation industry. A large proportion of these emissions occur before a device even reaches your hands, with up to 80% of a laptop’s carbon footprint generated during resource extraction and manufacturing. Meanwhile, e-waste has become the fastest-growing waste stream in the world, yet only a small fraction is formally collected and recycled.

Addressing these challenges starts at the design stage. Many forward-thinking companies are now creating modular devices that are easier to repair and upgrade, allowing users to replace parts rather than discarding the entire device. This approach not only extends the life of products but also supports the growing “right to repair” movement, which advocates for consumer access to parts and repair information.

Once devices reach the end of their first life, refurbishment and remanufacturing offer powerful ways to keep valuable materials in circulation. Choosing certified refurbished devices can reduce the carbon footprint of your tech purchases by up to 70% compared to buying new. Trade-in programs and take-back schemes run by manufacturers and retailers are making it easier for consumers and businesses to return used devices, which are then refurbished for resale or responsibly recycled. Donating still-functional electronics to schools, charities, or community groups is another way to extend their useful life and bridge the digital divide.

When devices can no longer be used or repaired, responsible recycling becomes critical. Certified e-waste recycling programs ensure that hazardous materials are safely managed and that rare metals and other valuable resources are recovered, reducing the need for new mining and manufacturing. Even data centres, the backbone of the internet, are getting a circular makeover, with many operators now reusing and refurbishing IT hardware, as well as capturing waste heat to supply local communities.

Digital technologies themselves are accelerating the transition to a circular economy. The Internet of Things (IoT) enables real-time monitoring of product use and condition, making maintenance and asset management more efficient. Blockchain technology is being used to track materials and products across complex supply chains, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in recycling and reuse efforts.

The benefits of embracing circular economy approaches in the digital sector are substantial. By reducing the need for new materials and minimising waste, we can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. Keeping resources in circulation also conserves finite natural resources, creates new economic opportunities in repair and refurbishment, and makes supply chains more resilient to global disruptions. Perhaps most importantly, it drives innovation, encouraging new business models and product designs that are better for people and the planet.

Of course, the path to a circular digital economy is not without its hurdles. Regulatory inconsistencies, limited recycling infrastructure, and a lack of consumer awareness can slow progress. But collaboration between manufacturers, policymakers, investors, and users is helping to accelerate change. Digital tools and platforms are making it easier than ever to track, manage, and optimise the flow of materials in the tech sector.

For individuals and organisations, the journey toward circularity starts with simple, practical steps. Extending the lifespan of your devices through repairs, upgrades, and protective care can make a real difference. Choosing brands and cloud services that prioritise circularity and renewable energy sends a powerful market signal. Raising awareness about e-waste and supporting right-to-repair initiatives can help build momentum for systemic change. And by using digital dashboards and carbon calculators to monitor your digital footprint, you can make more informed, sustainable choices.

The shift to a circular economy in the digital sector is more than just an environmental imperative, it’s a pathway to innovation, resilience, and shared prosperity. By rethinking how we design, use, and retire our digital tools, we can ensure that the benefits of connectivity don’t come at the expense of our planet. Every device kept in use, every kilogram of e-waste recycled, and every circular innovation brings us closer to a truly sustainable digital future. The time to act is now.