IoT Devices: Practical Yet Energy-Consuming
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the deployment of 5G networks have become cornerstones of modern society. However, concerns about their ecological consequences have also arisen.
According to various reports from France Stratégie, Citizing, KPMG & Virtus Management, Signals Research Group, Open Signal, and F. Rizzato, the ecological consequences of IoT devices may not currently offset their benefits. Yet, in the long term, the design of less polluting connected objects is still a feasible goal.
The EU’s Ecodesign Regulation (ESPR) is one such effort aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of connected devices across their entire lifecycle. Measures include digital product passports (DPP) and the implementation of circular economy principles. The trend is toward stricter sustainability requirements and more comprehensive CO2 footprint data for connected devices in the coming years.
The choice of communication technology significantly impacts the carbon footprint. With 5G, data consumption is 1.7 to 2.7 times higher than that of 4G, and a 2020 study by Open Signal found that 5G terminals would be more energy-intensive in terms of data absorption. Moreover, due to the short distance for exchanging data, the proliferation of 5G would require more antennas.
However, the deployment of 5G on the territory can lead to energy performance improvements for telecom networks. Engineers must now respond to increasingly stringent environmental standards, and developing other types of networks may be necessary depending on the associated technical environment.
Reuse, refurbishment, and recycling of IT devices alone helped avoid over 87,000 tons of CO2 in Germany in 2024, indicating potential for significant reduction through extended product use and circular services. The CO2 footprint of a connected device varies widely depending on the product type and lifecycle stages, but efforts like the EU’s Ecodesign Regulation (ESPR) are working to address this issue.
In conclusion, while the ecological consequences of IoT devices and 5G networks are a valid concern, it is possible to design less polluting connected objects and networks. As we move forward, it is crucial to continue efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of these technologies and embrace a more sustainable approach to digital innovation.
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