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The Internet of Trash: IoT Has a Looming E-Waste Problem (ieee.org)

Posted by msmash on from the closer-look dept.

As we add computing and radios to more things, we're also adding to the problem of e-waste. The United Nations found that people generated 44.7 million metric tons of e-waste globally in 2016, and expects that to grow to 52.2 million metric tons by 2021. From a report: There are two issues. We're adding semiconductors to products that previously had none, and we're also shortening the life of devices as we add more computing, turning products that might last 15 years into ones that must be replaced every five years. In fact, many small connected devices such as trackers, jewelry, or wearables are designed to fail once the battery dies. At that point, the consumer tosses it out and buys another.

4 of 79 comments (clear)

  1. With IOT obsolescence is a Feature, not a Bug by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 3, Insightful

    "turning products that might last 15 years into ones that must be replaced every five years."

    That's the idea.

    The reason IOT is being applied to otherwise mature technologies (Refrigerators, Ovens, Washing Machines, etc.) is to increase the purchasing cycle and design in 5-year obsolescence.

    The whole "battery is not replaceable so I have to throw it away" is a design choice based on cost, not customer demand.

  2. Wireless handphones anyone? by Jason1729 · · Score: 3, Insightful

    I just wonder what's going to happen when all the people spending $300-500 on wireless headphones find out they have a glued-in non-replacable battery that will turn their expensive "investment" into landfill within about 3 years.

    It's an environmental nightmare, but will they go out and repeat the same mistake for another $300-500 or realize a wire isn't all that bad a lot of the time?

  3. Warranty period too short by fluffernutter · · Score: 5, Insightful

    The solution is simple, double the mandated warranty period. Let companies worry about keeping the products working for that long, and while some people will choose to replace before the warranty is up, they will be useful longer to the next owner. Less will get thrown out.

    --
    Laws are rules for the court, but merely a bottom bar to hit for life. Think beyond laws in your actions always.
  4. Re:Digital controls by fluffernutter · · Score: 3, Informative

    Found it: https://thewirecutter.com/blog...

    --
    Laws are rules for the court, but merely a bottom bar to hit for life. Think beyond laws in your actions always.