Innovators and the Earth: How to help the planet through tech! 🌍

Guest blog written by Nkeiruka Whenu

Two girls exploring computer coding at a GLAM event

If you’re reading this, then it’s clear that you have the curiosity and ability to do some great things! The world of tech presents realms of possibilities for creativity and innovation. However, there are key considerations that we need to be mindful of when we use tech. We know that when you put your mind to something, you can do anything! And as April is Earth Month, now is the perfect time to explore and incorporate small changes that will make big impacts on the health of the planet!

What do we need to consider for tech sustainability? 👩🏾‍💻

As the world becomes more connected and tech-dependent, it is important to recognize the role that efficiency plays in reducing our environmental footprint. Some newer tech consume a lot of energy! It is important that we are conscious of how we use tech effectively. This doesn’t have to be hard, though! Here are some easy ways to reconsider how we use and implement tech:

1. Using power-saving modes - Tech devices can be especially energy-hungry. From computers to controllers, we can make a meaningful difference by adopting energy-saving modes and ensuring our devices are optimized for power efficiency. Additionally, turning off unused devices and managing screen brightness are simple yet effective actions that can reduce energy consumption.

2. Paying attention to proper tech disposal - Tech isn’t just about the latest gadgets or software; it is also about being aware of how we consume and dispose of tech. Reducing e-waste, recycling components, and purchasing energy-efficient products are steps toward a more sustainable tech ecosystem. It’s important to think about the lifecycle of devices and ensure we’re not contributing to unnecessary waste.

3. Supporting sustainable innovation - Emerging tech, such as solar power and ClimateTech, are transforming how we care for the planet. These creative innovations can reduce our carbon footprint and support a more sustainable future.

Responsible tech use and disposal isn’t just about minimizing harm... It is also about actively contributing to a better future. By teaching one another about the importance of using technology responsibly, we empower ourselves to lead the charge toward a greener, more sustainable world !

What needs to change in the tech conversation? 💬

Historically, women, minorities, and marginalized communities have been underrepresented in tech industries. This lack of representation limits creativity and innovation, which keeps us from developing solutions that can meet the needs of all people—especially those most affected by environmental issues. By ensuring that everyone has a voice in the development of emerging technologies, we create a future where tech not only improves lives, but also helps protect the planet!

Diversity in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths) is not just essential for innovation; it's crucial for building a sustainable, inclusive future. As we explore the environmental impact of tech, it is important to remember that diverse perspectives lead to more creative ideas and effective innovations! Imagine if you were the only one who knew the solution to a really tricky problem, but you couldn’t get into the room to share your ideas? That would be such a disservice to everyone. This is why diversity is important, especially in STEAM, where ideas literally power innovation!

How do you promote tech sustainability, Nkeiru? 🫱🏽‍🫲🏾

Well, amidst my many projects, I am the Founder of a company called Web3sy. We introduce young tech enthusiasts aged 8 to 16 to different, emerging technologies through guided workshops, half-term camps, and after-school clubs. We cover topics ranging from Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain, to Quantum Computing and Neurotechnology. In essence, we make learning Web3 easy!

You may be wondering what some of these emerging tech terms mean... AI examples we use every day are virtual assistants, chatbots, navigation apps, and social media. Web2 is the current version of the internet. It is where you can read and write information to and from it (like watching TikToks or posting Snapchat stories). Web3 is the emerging internet; it's where you can read, write, and own digital assets - becoming the legal owner. Blockchain is a programmatic database of information on Web3 that cannot be changed. Blockchain is controlled by everyone who can access it, rather than by one central authority. (We discuss these topics in more depth during Web3 and Blockchain workshops.)

When teaching about emerging tech, it is also important to impart fair, accurate, and relevant information on the environmental impact of the tech that we use. In Web3sy workshops and presentations, we highlight sociological, environmental, and ethical concerns associated with different tech. We help young tech leaders understand how their energy use and consumption informs their environmental footprint.

Nkeiru, how can I help the planet through tech? 🤷🏽‍♀️

1. Take note of some of the tech that you use on a regular basis. What can you do to make your choices more sustainable?

2. Think of a place where you live, study, or work. What is one thing that can be done to have more of an environmentally friendly impact? Consider writing a persuasive letter to a person of authority there to make this happen!

3. If switching off lights reduces electricity usage, turning off faucets completely conserves water, and keeping doors closed minimises heat-related energy, then what other ways can you be environmentally-conscious where you live and with your appliances?

In conclusion, we must remember the impact that our tech and energy choices have on the planet. By using tech responsibly, efficiently, and sustainably, we can help ensure that tomorrow's innovations are groundbreaking and environmentally conscious.

We all have important roles in creating a sustainable future where technologies work for us AND the planet.  It's important that we advocate for unique perspectives as well as reduce our environmental impacts. Diversity in STEAM is equally important, as it fuels creativity, innovation, inclusive, and equitable solutions for all ! Let's work together to help the Earth and each other through tech! 🌏

Photo collage of guest writer, Nkeriuka Whenu

Nkeiruka Whenu’s Superpower Profile

Nkeiruka Whenu is a Software Engineer at Canonical, a software development company that delivers open source technology. Nkeiru is also the CEO and Founder of Web3sy, a Web3 and Emerging Technology platform and community. Web3sy offers comprehensive content for tech enthusiasts of all levels, making big-tech accessible to all and democratising access to STEAM learning.

GLAM values, embraces, and advocates for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We weave the 17 Goals into our STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) and leadership development programs. We also incorporate many environmentally sustainable products and materials into our GLAM events.  ♻️

Explore more content throughout our website, follow @GLAMReadyToLead on socials, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and read other blogs and press releases. We can’t wait to connect with you! 

#GLAMReadyToLead

#Web3sy

#EarthMonth

#STEAMCareers

#WomenInTech

#FemaleInnovators

#GirlsEmpowerment

#GirlsInSTEAM 

#GLAMBlogs

#GLAMSheroes