Gadgets Made With Recycled Materials
When you think of gadgets, you might picture them as shiny new devices fresh off the assembly line. However, with the growing concern for the environment, many companies are now turning towards more eco-friendly and sustainable options. One such trend is the use of recycled materials in the production of gadgets. Not only does this reduce the amount of waste and pollution, but it also promotes a circular economy. In this article, we will explore some of the most innovative and exciting gadgets that are made with recycled materials.
The Impact of Gadgets on the Environment
Gadgets have become an essential part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, we rely on these devices for communication, entertainment, and work. However, the production and disposal of these gadgets have a significant impact on the environment.
According to a report by the United Nations University, electronic waste (e-waste) is the fastest-growing waste stream in the world. It is estimated that around 53 million tons of electronic waste is produced worldwide every year, with only 17% being recycled. Most of this e-waste ends up in landfills, where they release toxic chemicals and pose a threat to the environment and human health.
As consumers become more aware of these issues, the demand for eco-friendly gadgets is on the rise. Companies are now exploring ways to incorporate recycled materials into their products to minimize their environmental impact.
Gadgets Made with Recycled Plastic
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 is one of the latest gadgets to join the movement towards sustainability. These noise-canceling headphones are made with 30% post-consumer recycled plastic. Not only does this reduce plastic waste, but it also gives a second life to materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill.
Motorola moto g100
The Motorola moto g100 is another smartphone that is taking steps towards a more sustainable future. The back cover of the device is made with 100% recycled plastic bottles. As a bonus, the packaging for this phone is also made with recycled materials.
Gadgets Made with Recycled Aluminum
Apple MacBook Air
Apple has been a frontrunner in promoting sustainability in the tech industry. The latest MacBook Air is made with 100% recycled aluminum, reducing the carbon footprint by almost 50%. The company has also pledged to make all of its products from recycled or renewable materials in the future.
Xbox Wireless Controller
The new Xbox Wireless Controller is also made with 30% post-consumer recycled plastic. It is part of Microsoft’s sustainability initiative, which aims to reduce their carbon footprint and use more eco-friendly materials in their products.
Gadgets Made from Recycled E-Waste
Fairphone
The Fairphone is not your usual smartphone. It is the world’s first modular phone made from recycled e-waste. The company sources its materials ethically and ensures that their devices are produced under fair labor conditions. The modular design also allows for easy repairs and upgrades, reducing electronic waste in the long run.
REMADE Laptop Sleeves
REMADE is a company that specializes in creating sustainable products from electronic waste. Their laptop sleeves are made from discarded wires, cables, and circuitry, giving these materials a new purpose and reducing the amount of e-waste that ends up in landfills.
The Future of Sustainable Gadgets
The use of recycled materials in gadgets is just the beginning of a more sustainable future. Many companies are now investing in research and development to create new materials that are environmentally friendly and can be easily recycled.
One such innovation is the creation of biodegradable electronics. Companies like Samsung and Dell are working towards creating devices that will self-destruct after a certain amount of time, leaving behind only biodegradable components. This will significantly reduce e-waste and its impact on the environment.
As consumers, we can also play our part in promoting sustainable gadgets. When buying a new device, look for ones made with recycled materials or materials that can be easily recycled. Also, consider donating or recycling your old gadgets instead of throwing them away.
Conclusion
The use of recycled materials in gadgets is a promising step towards a more sustainable future. By incorporating these materials into our devices, we can reduce the amount of waste, decrease our carbon footprint, and promote a circular economy. As consumers become more aware of their impact on the environment, it is now up to companies to make a real change and create eco-friendly gadgets for a greener world.
