{"id":27326,"date":"2025-01-08T05:22:56","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T10:22:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/quantumlifecycle.com\/?p=27326"},"modified":"2025-01-08T05:22:56","modified_gmt":"2025-01-08T10:22:56","slug":"the-impact-of-iot-devices-on-e-waste-volumes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/quantumlifecycle.com\/en_CA\/blog\/the-impact-of-iot-devices-on-e-waste-volumes\/","title":{"rendered":"The Impact of IoT Devices on E-Waste Volumes"},"content":{"rendered":"

From fitness trackers to home appliances and industrial sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing how we use technology. Devices are more integrated in our daily lives than ever, but as the proliferation of this technology accelerates, so do e-waste<\/a> volumes. Understanding the relationship between IoT and e-waste is essential for developing sustainable technology practices.<\/p>\n

The evolving IoT landscape<\/h2>\n

The IoT ecosystem has seen significant growth within the last decade. In 2023, there were an estimated 16.7 billion IoT devices<\/a>; by 2030, this is expected to grow to 32.1 billion.<\/p>\n

From simple sensors to sophisticated devices, IoT technology is often designed for convenience and connectivity, but with little consideration for end-of-life<\/a> management. Many of these devices have shorter lifespans than traditional electronics. For example, fitness trackers often become obsolete within a few years due to rapid advancements in technology and software compatibility issues. Likewise, smart home devices often lose support or functionality as manufacturers encourage consumers to upgrade to newer models.<\/p>\n

How IoT devices contribute to e-waste<\/h2>\n

E-waste is already a significant, fast-growing waste stream across the globe. IoT devices complicate this challenge for several reasons:<\/p>\n