Computer technology has affected our world and environment in profound ways. From providing us with crucial advancements in communication to forever shaping the outlook of our economy, the development and rise of computers have brought about unprecedented improvement to our society. So much so that it’s easy to understand we’ve looked at computers and laptops through the rose-colored glasses that never quite allowed us as consumers to see the damage to our environment that computers have cost us.
For years, the United Nations Environment Programme has underlined how technology has caused degradation, increased climate change, and caused problems regarding waste management. Computers require the use of hazardous substances like lead and mercury. These substances have to be extracted from the earth in ways that are damaging to the environment and, in addition, cause more damage when the items are disposed of and reintroduced back into the earth. According to The New York Times, “at either end, toxic substances can find their way into the air, soil, water and eventually into people, where they have the potential to cause serious health problems.”
Of course, while obtaining the fastest and flashiest of new technology can seem important, in the grand scheme of things purchasing refurbished computers, phones and laptops will undoubtedly make a greater difference in your future. This year, if you’re considering leveling up your computer and laptops for the school year, consider these environmentally conscious options.
Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Intel Core i5 4GB RAM
Ah, the beloved Apple computer! If you’re fixated on snapping up an Apple MacBook Pro laptop, consider buying something refurbished from Best Buy. You’ll still get the glossy 13.3-inch display with crisp, bright images. According to the features and reviews for this laptop, it has a 63.5-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery which provides “up to 7 hours of wireless web.” That’s right; you’ll have full access to researching how to save the environment at the touch of your fingertips.
Price: $329.99
Refurbished SAMSUNG Chromebook
Walmart has an entire stock of refurbished Samsung Chromebooks from 2019. All of these laptops meet the accessibility requirements of Chrome OS. The computers are outfitted with military-grade-durability, “ultra-fast connectivity with Gigabit WiFi,” and 12.5 hours of battery life.
Price: $99.00
Refurbished Gateway 11.6″ FHD Ultra Slim Notebook
This 11.6-inch Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook features a 1080p screen that reviewers describe as bringing a “crystal-clear picture.” With THX™ audio products, consumers will have access to tip-top audio.
Price: $139.00
HP EliteBook 840 G3 Intel Core i5-6300U
Light and exceptionally thin, this HP EliteBook 840 is perfect for users hustling across campus to get classes. Reviews describe this computer as having “enterprise-class performance technology” and 2.40GHZ speed and 8 GB memory, and we’re not surprised!
Price: $308.99