When Devices Pollute, IT Can Refute

By, Harits Danish Mohd Fairuz

Technology has revolutionized the way we live, yet it also leaves behind an invisible footprint—e-waste, excessive energy use, and unsustainable device production. As Information Technology (IT) continues to grow, so does its environmental impact. From the massive energy consumption of data centers to the mountains of discarded electronics, the IT industry plays a significant role in contributing to climate change. Nevertheless, it also holds the power to reverse this damage. Green IT, the practice of designing, using, and disposing of technology in ways that minimize environmental harm, aligns closely with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13, which calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts (Lee et al., 2016). In Islam, humans are considered khalifah (stewards) of the Earth, responsible for its care and preservation. As stated in Surah Al-A’raf (7:31), “Do not waste. Verily, He does not like the wasteful.” Through mindful use of IT, we can honor this responsibility and work toward a more sustainable planet.

Growing E-Waste Crisis

One of the most pressing issues related to IT and the environment is electronic waste. Every year, millions of tons of old computers, phones, and gadgets are dumped into landfills, releasing harmful chemicals into the soil and water. Many of these devices are discarded not because they are broken, but due to constant tech upgrades and planned obsolescence. In 2019 alone, the world generated over 53 million metric tons of e-waste, with only 17 percent properly recycled according to Forti et al. in their 2020 publication. Despite claims from giant tech companies about reducing e-waste through recycled materials and fewer accessories in packaging, these actions often serve more to cut corners and increase profits rather than combat the real issue of e-waste. The biggest challenge lies in consumer behavior and a lack of awareness, as people often discard electronics irresponsibly or are unaware of recycling centers. Additionally, many countries lack proper e-waste management infrastructure. To address this, promoting e-waste recycling programs at universities and local communities is crucial. Furthermore, encouraging manufacturers to create repairable and recyclable devices, alongside educating the public about proper disposal through IT campaigns and awareness applications, can foster more responsible practices.

Energy-Hungry Data Centers

Data centers—the backbone of modern IT—consume enormous amounts of electricity to store and process data. As internet usage increases, so does the demand for servers. In 2020, data centers consumed around 1% of global electricity, a number that continues to grow, mentioned Koronen et al. in 2020. Many of these centers rely on non-renewable energy sources, contributing significantly to carbon emissions. Transitioning to clean energy and optimizing systems requires substantial costs and technical changes, and some corporations remain reluctant to make these adjustments due to profit concerns. To mitigate this, promoting green cloud computing by choosing data centers that utilize renewable energy is essential. Additionally, using virtualization and energy-efficient coding to reduce unnecessary server load, and supporting policies that encourage companies to adopt green IT operations, can significantly lessen the environmental footprint.

Digital Solutions for Climate Action

While IT undoubtedly contributes to environmental problems, it also offers powerful solutions. Smart systems, remote working tools, and environmental monitoring applications help reduce travel, track emissions, and promote sustainability. For instance, IoT-based agriculture systems aid in reducing water and energy waste by monitoring real- time soil data, while smart traffic management in cities helps minimize congestion and, consequently, carbon emissions. Developing and deploying these digital solutions, however, requires significant funding and skilled personnel. Moreover, in lower-income areas, a digital divide often limits access to these crucial technologies. To overcome these obstacles, efforts should focus on encouraging the development of green tech startups through grants and competitions. Training IT students and professionals in climate focused digital innovation and increasing access to climate data and environmental tools through open-source platforms are also vital steps toward a more sustainable future.

IT can either accelerate environmental damage or serve as a powerful tool for change—it all depends on its application. The path to a greener future lies in responsible innovation, eco-conscious practices, and strong policy support. As future IT professionals, we bear the responsibility not only to build systems but also to integrate sustainability into those systems. In line with Islamic teachings on moderation and stewardship, we must work collaboratively to reduce e-waste, optimize energy use, and create technology that respects the earth. By embracing Green IT, we are not merely advancing technology; we are actively preserving our planet.***