Quebecers adn Technology: A Love-Hate Relationship with Electronic Devices
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A recent survey conducted by the Academy of digital Transformation (ATN) reveals a engaging dichotomy in Quebecers’ relationship with technology.While a third of respondents expressed openness to spending a week without using technological devices, the majority find it nearly unachievable to disconnect from their digital lives. This tension highlights a growing challenge: balancing convenience with sustainability in an era dominated by electronic devices.
The Throwaway Culture: A Growing Concern
The survey paints a stark picture of Quebecers’ consumption habits.Only one in four individuals consider repairing a broken electronic device, while 75% prefer buying new gadgets over second-hand or refurbished alternatives. This trend spans all types of devices, from smartphones to televisions and video game consoles.
For students, the narrative shifts slightly. One in three students opt for remanufactured or refurbished devices, primarily driven by cost considerations. However, the allure of new models remains strong. 57% of adults admit to replacing their smartphones before they stop functioning,with the average device lasting just over four years before being discarded or relegated to a drawer.
Jonathan Deschênes, a professor at HEC Montréal and an expert in responsible consumption and the circular economy, warns that this behavior is unsustainable. “Our current level of global production and consumption cannot be maintained in the long term,” he says. Deschênes points to “accelerated obsolescence”—a strategy employed by manufacturers to ensure continuous sales—as a key driver of this issue.
“The situation is alarming and generates worry and even eco-anxiety,” he adds. “However, consumer behavior does not necessarily reflect this worrying reality. In academia, the terms ‘green gap’ or ‘value-action gap’ are often used to describe the difference between the attitude towards the adoption of responsible behavior and the actual actions of individuals.”
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite these challenges, the survey offers a ray of hope. 58% of respondents give functional gadgets a second life, often by gifting them to loved ones (28%). Additionally, 54% of participants bring non-functional devices to dedicated recycling centers.
Dominique Levesque, General Director of the Association for the Recycling of Electronic Products of Quebec, emphasizes the importance of these actions. Devices forgotten in drawers, she notes, “represent a wealth of recoverable materials and non-renewable resources.”
Key Insights at a Glance
| Key Findings | Percentage |
|———————————————–|—————-|
| Quebecers open to a week without technology | 33% |
| prefer buying new devices over second-hand | 75% |
| Replace smartphones before they stop working | 57% |
| Give functional devices a second life | 58% |
| Recycle non-functional devices | 54% |
The Path Forward
The survey underscores the need for greater awareness and action to bridge the “green gap.” While many Quebecers recognize the environmental impact of their consumption habits, translating this awareness into tangible change remains a challenge.
As Deschênes aptly puts it, “As soon as electronic products are acquired, their days are numbered.” The question is: How can we extend those days and reduce our reliance on new devices?
For those looking to make a difference, consider exploring refurbished electronics or supporting initiatives like the Association for the Recycling of Electronic Products of Quebec. Every small step counts in building a more lasting future.
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Bridging the Green Gap: A Conversation on Sustainable Tech Consumption in Quebec
In a world increasingly dominated by technology, Quebecers are grappling with the environmental impact of their electronic consumption habits. A recent survey by the Academy of Digital change (ATN) highlights the tension between convenience and sustainability, revealing a growing “green gap” between awareness and action. To explore this issue further, we sat down with Dr. Marie-Claude Tremblay, a leading expert in sustainable technology and circular economy practices, to discuss how Quebecers can bridge this gap and embrace more responsible consumption.
The Throwaway Culture: A Growing Concern
Senior Editor: Dr. Tremblay, the survey shows that 75% of Quebecers prefer buying new devices over refurbished or second-hand options. Why do you think this trend persists despite growing awareness of environmental issues?
Dr. Marie-Claude Tremblay: It’s a complex issue rooted in both cultural and economic factors. On one hand, there’s a pervasive belief that newer devices are inherently better—faster, more efficient, and more reliable. This is often reinforced by aggressive marketing campaigns that emphasize the latest features. On the other hand, the cost of repairing devices can sometimes rival or even exceed the price of buying new, especially for older models. This creates a disincentive for consumers to choose repair over replacement.
Additionally, there’s a psychological aspect to consider. Many people view their devices as extensions of their identity, and upgrading to the latest model can feel like a status symbol. This “throwaway culture” is further exacerbated by what we call “accelerated obsolescence”, where manufacturers design products with a limited lifespan to encourage frequent upgrades.
Senior Editor: You mentioned accelerated obsolescence.Can you elaborate on how this practice impacts both consumers and the habitat?
Dr. Marie-Claude Tremblay: Absolutely. Accelerated obsolescence is a deliberate strategy employed by manufacturers to shorten the lifespan of products, either through hardware limitations or software updates that render older devices incompatible. This creates a cycle where consumers feel compelled to replace their devices more frequently, even if the old ones are still functional.
The environmental cost of this practice is staggering. Electronic waste, or e-waste, is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally. Many of the materials used in electronics, such as rare earth metals, are non-renewable and require significant energy to extract and process.When devices are discarded prematurely, these valuable resources are lost, and the environmental footprint of production and disposal grows exponentially.
Moreover,the disposal process itself can be problematic. If not handled properly, e-waste can release toxic substances into the environment, posing risks to both human health and ecosystems.This is why initiatives like the Association for the Recycling of Electronic Products of Quebec are so crucial—they help ensure that end-of-life devices are recycled responsibly.
A Glimmer of Hope: Second Lives for Devices
Senior Editor: The survey also found that 58% of Quebecers give functional devices a second life, often by gifting them to loved ones. How significant is this practice in reducing electronic waste?
Dr. Marie-Claude Tremblay: It’s incredibly significant. Extending the lifespan of devices through reuse is one of the most effective ways to reduce e-waste. When a functional device is passed on to someone else, it delays the need for a new purchase, thereby conserving resources and reducing the environmental impact of production.
this practice also highlights the importance of shifting our mindset from ownership to stewardship. Rather of viewing devices as disposable, we should see them as valuable tools that can serve multiple users over time. This is where refurbished electronics come into play. By choosing refurbished devices,consumers can enjoy high-quality products at a lower cost while contributing to a more sustainable economy.
The Path Forward: Bridging the Green Gap
Senior Editor: What steps can individuals and policymakers take to bridge the “green gap” and promote more sustainable tech consumption?
Dr. Marie-Claude Tremblay: There are several actions that can make a difference. For individuals, the first step is awareness. Understanding the environmental impact of our consumption habits is crucial. From there, small changes can add up—choosing refurbished devices, repairing instead of replacing, and recycling old electronics responsibly.
On a broader scale, policymakers have a role to play in creating an environment that supports sustainable practices.This could include implementing regulations to curb accelerated obsolescence,offering incentives for manufacturers to design longer-lasting products,and investing in infrastructure for e-waste recycling. Education is also key. By raising awareness about the benefits of sustainable tech consumption, we can empower more people to make informed choices.
supporting organizations like the Association for the Recycling of electronic Products of Quebec is essential. These initiatives not only provide practical solutions for e-waste management but also serve as a reminder that every small step counts in building a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Tremblay, for sharing your insights.It’s clear that while the challenges are significant, there are also meaningful opportunities for change. by embracing refurbished electronics, extending the lifespan of our devices, and supporting recycling initiatives, Quebecers can take meaningful steps toward bridging the green gap and fostering a more sustainable relationship with technology.
Dr. Marie-Claude Tremblay: Thank you for having me. It’s a conversation we need to keep having, and I’m hopeful that with collective effort, we can create a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand.
Stay informed about the latest trends in technology and sustainability by subscribing to our sprawling newsletter. For more insights, visit the Academy of Digital transformation (ATN).
