Bitcoin mining uses the same amount of energy as Argentina, while laptops need a ton of material

The U.N. Trade and Development experts highlight significant environmental costs associated with digitalization, with the ICT sector contributing 1.5 to 3.2% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

To manufacture a typical laptop, almost a ton of materials is needed, leading to considerable environmental impact, including the massive water requirement for lithium extraction.

Critically, the report emphasizes that while digital technology might not emit visible smoke, it has severe and less tangible environmental consequences, especially in resource extraction and waste generation.

The energy consumption of data centers has skyrocketed, reaching 460 TWh in 2022, nearly double that of Spain, with projections suggesting this could double again by 2026.

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