Have you ever wanted to embark on a journey of sustainability, but didn’t know where to start? Here’s a quick 7-step easy guide on how you can do it DIGITALLY!
In a world that never slows down, it is easy to overlook the fact that the simplest of everyday activities can have an impact on the environment. From the moment we wake up to the time when we mindlessly scroll through our phones while relaxing on the couch, our smallest activities can contribute to carbon emissions. It may sound difficult to embrace sustainability but there are simple ways to care more for the planet we call home. The best part- It can start with your mobile phones and laptops.
Here’s how you can embrace sustainability digitally –
1. UNSUBSCRIBE
Every time we visit a website and enter our email addresses, we often unknowingly say yes to their newsletter subscriptions. Many newsletters offer a great deal of advantages, knowledge, and sometimes the best discounts, but there are many that we might not even consider opening. Start by unsubscribing. This will not only help in streamlining your inbox but also conserve energy and space taken by these emails in data storage centers and thereby reduce emissions.
2. DECLUTTER
Cleaning up our devices by removing unnecessary images, applications, documents, videos, and other files is something we all want to do, but tend to procrastinate. Not only will this simple process free up space on your device and keep it running smoothly, you’ll find that it’s beneficial for the environment as well. By de-cluttering and creating space, devices optimize the power and data usage and help in make a meaningful impact.
3. SOCIAL MEDIA DETOX
Taking a break from social media can also help us in saving the environment. Not only will it help in making us more productive and focused, but signing off from these apps once in a while will also minimize energy consumption, need less data storage, thus reducing the carbon footprint.
4. SWITCH TO DARK MODE
Switching to dark mode reduces the screen brightness. This is recommended as it’s easier on the eyes and extends the battery life of our devices. Switching to dark mode is more sustainable because your device uses less power, reduces your carbon emissions, and protects the planet.
5. DISABLE AUTOMATIC DOWNLOADS
It’s a world of sharing – sharing images, videos, important documents, and memes. While at times it’s necessary to download certain files, disabling the automatic downloads will help you choose what’s important and what’s not. This small step reduces the power and data required to download and store files, making it more sustainable.
6. MINDFUL SCROLLING, POSTING & SHARING
We have all been victims of of mindlessly scrolling and browsing the internet. This has impacted our brains tremendously, leading to more stress and anxiety. It has also added stress to the environment. By mindful usage, our devices consumes less power and data resources, and lessens the digital impact. Next time you feel like sharing your pictures from the vacation, make sure you don’t upload the entire album.
7. SWITCH OFF COMPLETELY AT NIGHT
Turning off your device completely when not in use also has a positive impact on the environment. When you leave your device on standby mode, they continuously consume small parts of energy and power known as “Vampire energy”. By switching the power off, we prevent wasteful consumption and efficiently contribute to the environment.
In a world with complex challenges, it’s easy to overlook the importance of small steps. While these steps towards sustainability may seem inconsequential when taken individually, together we can make a significant impact. Each unsubscribe, each file deleted and each switch off holds the key to a greener future. It starts with you and me.
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