Environmental Impact of Smartphones

The video discusses the lifecycle of smartphones, highlighting their environmental impact, challenges in repair, and the culture of disposability. It introduces Fairphone, a modular phone designed for easy repair, and explores recycling options and future battery technologies. The video emphasizes the need for sustainable phone design and the potential of new materials like graphene to extend battery life and reduce waste.

What percentage of a smartphone's greenhouse gas emissions occur before it reaches the consumer?

• 80%

• 70%

• 60%

• 50%

How often do Americans typically replace their smartphones?

• Every year

• Every two years

• Every three years

• Every four years

What is a significant environmental impact of shipping smartphones globally?

• Smog and particulate pollution comparable to all cars

• Increased air travel emissions

• Deforestation

• Increased water pollution

Why are modern smartphones difficult to repair?

• They are too expensive

• They are made of rare materials

• They are too small

• They are not designed to be taken apart

What is the Fairphone known for?

• Having the longest battery life

• Being easily repairable

• Having the best camera

• Being the most expensive phone

What is considered the most toxic component in a smartphone?

• The screen

• The processor

• The battery

• The casing

What is Apple's robot Liam capable of doing?

• Designing new phone models

• Assembling new iPhones

• Taking apart an iPhone 6 in 11 seconds

• Recycling plastic components

What future technology could extend the lifespan of phone batteries?

• Lithium mining

• Graphene-based batteries

• Solar charging

• Wireless charging

What is a potential benefit of 3D printing in phone design?

• Faster internet speeds

• Better screen resolution

• Cheaper production costs

• Customizable battery shapes

What is a key factor driving the disposability of modern technology?

• Rapid innovation and design for disposability

• High repair costs

• Lack of consumer interest

• Slow innovation