Is automation a double-edged sword? The impact of automation on the environment is a topic that cannot be ignored. Let’s take a look!

With the increased use of automation around the world, we’ve witnessed a lot of benefits and drawbacks. Benefits range from a variety of things such as better customer service, reduced costs, and increased productivity, but there are drawbacks. Some of the most common drawbacks include job displacement, inequality, and environmental impacts, in this article, we’ll focus on how automation affects the environment.

Energy consumption

The first and most critical impact of automation on the environment is the increase in energy consumption. Automated machinery and devices require a lot more power to operate. More often than not, the source of this energy often comes from non-renewable sources such as (of course you guessed it), fossil fuels. With this increased energy consumption comes more carbon emissions, meaning more contributions to climate change.

Production of electronic waste

Another way automation affects the environment is through the production of electronic waste. As industries rely more and more on automated machinery, the need for hardware and software upgrades becomes much more prevalent. As a result of the constant need for upgrades and replacements, there will be an increase in electronic waste being generated. This type of waste can be harmful to not only your health as a human but the environment as well, if not disposed of properly.

These drawbacks can have a painful impact on human health as well as the environment. To mitigate these drawbacks of automation on the environment, organizations can invest in renewable energy sources and properly dispose of electronic waste. They can also implement responsible automation practices that prioritize social and environmental sustainability.

By taking a holistic approach to automation, companies can ensure that their practices align with sustainable and responsible values.