Environmental Issues Associated with Digital Devices

Which of the following is NOT an environmental issue associated with digital devices?

• Energy consumption

• Manufacture

• User interface

• Replacement cycle

Answer explanation

The user interface of digital devices does not directly contribute to environmental issues. In contrast, energy consumption, manufacture, and replacement cycles are all significant factors impacting the environment.

Is aluminium considered a renewable or non-renewable material?

• Renewable

• Non-renewable

• Both

• Neither

Answer explanation

Aluminium is derived from bauxite ore, which is a finite resource. Once extracted and used, it cannot be replenished naturally within a human timeframe, making it a non-renewable material.

Gold is categorized as:

• Renewable

• Non-renewable

• Reusable

• Compostable

Answer explanation

Gold is classified as a non-renewable resource because it is a finite natural resource that cannot be replenished once extracted. Unlike renewable resources, gold cannot be regenerated in a human timescale.

Which material is NOT non-renewable?

• Steel

• Plastic

• Water

• Aluminium

Answer explanation

Water is a renewable resource, as it can be replenished through the water cycle. In contrast, steel, plastic, and aluminium are derived from finite resources and are considered non-renewable.

What is a potential impact of e-waste on people and the environment?

• Improved health

• Economic growth

• Pollution and health risks

• Increased employment

Answer explanation

E-waste can release harmful substances like lead and mercury, leading to pollution and serious health risks for communities. This makes 'Pollution and health risks' the correct choice, as it highlights the negative impacts of e-waste.

How many tons of gold are thrown away worldwide each year?

• 500 tons

• 300 tons

• 100 tons

• 200 tons

Answer explanation

Each year, approximately 300 tons of gold are discarded globally, often from electronic waste and other sources. This highlights the significant amount of valuable resources that are wasted.

What is the estimated value of the steel thrown away worldwide each year?

• £4.5 billion

• £6.5 billion

• £8.5 billion

• £10.5 billion

Answer explanation

The estimated value of steel thrown away worldwide each year is approximately £6.5 billion, highlighting the significant waste in the industry that could be recycled or reused.

Which part of the Fairphone is designed to be changeable to promote sustainability?

• Rear camera

• Front camera

• Microphone

• Antenna

Answer explanation

The Fairphone's rear camera is designed to be changeable, allowing users to replace it easily. This promotes sustainability by reducing electronic waste and extending the phone's lifespan.

Which of the following is NOT a reason for product replacement mentioned in the document?

• Components no longer work

• Newer software demands

• Product is too heavy

• Planned obsolescence

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Product is too heavy', is not mentioned as a reason for product replacement. The other options relate to functionality and planned obsolescence, which are valid reasons for replacing a product.

What is the primary reason for the increase in e-waste globally?

• Increased recycling efforts

• Rapid technological advancements

• Decrease in electronic usage

• Improved waste management

Answer explanation

The primary reason for the increase in e-waste globally is rapid technological advancements. As technology evolves quickly, consumers frequently upgrade to newer devices, leading to more discarded electronics.