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Knowledge/A Level/H446/01 Computer systems/Moral and Ethical Issues/Environmental effects

Environmental effects

1.5.2 Moral and Ethical Issues

Moral and Ethical Issues — Note 4 of 9

Candidates need to understand how the environmental effects of computers (such as disposal and energy use) have moral, social, ethical and cultural implications.

What you need to know

Computers affect the environment throughout their lifecycle, from manufacture to energy use and disposal. They can also be used to reduce environmental impact.

What to know

  • Manufacturing uses scarce raw materials (rare earth metals) and energy, and mining can harm local communities and environments.
  • Energy use: data centres and devices consume large amounts of electricity; cooling data centres uses energy and water.
  • Disposal: electronic waste (e-waste) contains toxic substances; much of it is exported to developing countries and dismantled unsafely.
  • Frequent upgrades and short product lifespans increase e-waste.
  • Positive effects: video conferencing and remote working reduce travel; smart systems reduce energy use; modelling helps climate research; digital documents reduce paper use.

Exam technique

  • Tip:Discuss both harmful and beneficial effects, and consider who bears the impact.
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Moral and Ethical Issues

Note 4 of 9

  1. 1Computers in the workforce
  2. 2Automated decision making
  3. 3Artificial intelligence
  4. 4Environmental effects
  5. 5Censorship and the Internet
  6. 6Monitor behaviour
  7. 7Analyse personal information
  8. 8Piracy and offensive communications
  9. 9Layout, colour paradigms and character sets
Topic overview