Digital emissions: A uniquely 21st-century waste problem

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• November 22, 2021

The internet's carbon footprint, currently accounting for nearly 4 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, is a significant but often overlooked aspect of our digital lives. This footprint extends beyond the energy used by our devices and data centers, encompassing the entire lifecycle of these technologies, from manufacturing to disposal. However, with the rise of environmentally conscious businesses and consumers, coupled with potential government regulations and technological advancements, we may see a downward trend in digital emissions.

Digital emissions context

The digital world has a physical footprint that is often overlooked. Data suggests that the internet is responsible for nearly 4 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. This figure encompasses the energy consumption of everyday devices such as smartphones and Wi-Fi routers. Additionally, it includes the massive data centers that serve as storage for the vast amount of information that circulates online.

Delving deeper, the carbon footprint of the internet extends beyond the energy consumed during use. It also accounts for the energy expended in the production and distribution of computing devices. The manufacturing process of these devices, from laptops to smartphones, involves resource extraction, assembly, and transportation, all of which contribute to carbon dioxide emissions. Furthermore, the energy required for the operation and cooling of these devices and data centers is a significant contributor to this issue.

The energy that powers our devices and cools their batteries is drawn from local electric grids. These grids are fueled by various sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear power, and renewable energy. The type of energy source used can greatly influence the carbon footprint of digital activities. For instance, a device powered by coal will have a higher carbon footprint than one powered by renewable energy. Therefore, the transition to cleaner energy sources is a crucial step in reducing digital carbon emissions.

Disruptive impact 

The United Nations International Telecommunications Union thinks that the global electricity consumption by the internet may be less than what current data suggests. This perspective is rooted in the adoption of eco-friendly initiatives, such as improved energy efficiency and the centralization of data in large facilities. These strategies can lead to a significant reduction in energy consumption. For instance, large data centers can leverage advanced cooling technologies and renewable energy sources, which are more efficient and sustainable.

The carbon footprint of the internet is expected to continue its downward trend, driven by the rise of environmentally conscious businesses and consumers. As awareness about the environmental impact of our digital activities grows, consumers may start demanding greater transparency from companies regarding their energy sources. This shift in consumer behavior could further incentivize businesses to adopt energy-efficient strategies. For example, companies might be encouraged to invest in renewable energy sources for their data centers or design their products to be more energy-efficient.

However, as we look towards 2030, a significant portion of the world's population, primarily in developing regions, may gain access to the internet for the first time. While this development will unlock new opportunities for billions of people, it also implies that per capita digital emissions will likely increase. Therefore, it is crucial for governments to mitigate this potential impact, including promoting digital literacy with a focus on sustainable internet usage, investing in infrastructure that supports renewable energy, and implementing policies that encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies.

Implications of digital emissions 

Wider implications of digital emissions may include: 

• Businesses hiring trained environmentalists to improve their energy efficiency and public image. There may also be a rise in demand for professionals specializing in green IT and sustainable digital infrastructure.


• Governments mandating transparency from businesses regarding energy efficiency, opening up jobs for graduates with science and law degrees. 


• A shift in consumer behavior toward supporting companies that prioritize energy efficiency, leading to a more sustainable and responsible digital economy.


• Governments worldwide enacting legislation to regulate digital emissions, leading to stricter standards for technology companies.


• The demographic shift towards a more digitally connected global population worsening digital emissions, requiring the development of more sustainable internet infrastructure.


• Technological advancements focusing on energy efficiency, leading to the creation of devices and systems that consume less power.


• Economic incentives to encourage companies to reduce their digital emissions, such as tax rebates.

Questions to consider

• Do you think it’s practical to expect consumers from developing countries to invest in eco-friendly devices and internet services?


• Should companies explore alternative means of data storage (such as DNA data storage)?