Last week I read an article saying that streaming Netflix for 2 hours was the equivalent of driving 1/4 mile in terms of carbon emission, and that an hour’s video call produced 170g of carbon, comparable to a pot of Bisto granules. This blew my mind, and it was something I decided to explore further.
In terms of climate change, a lot is focussed on industry and car pollution, but who knew that a Netflix addiction (guilty!) was contributing this much to emissions? I also read how a typical email user led to 135KG of carbon being emitted into the air per year. Bonkers!
My own view is that I think video calls, although still contributing, vastly reduce the amount of carbon produced as in pre Covid times sales and client meetings would take place in person, sometimes involving a 300 mile round trip. How much carbon would be emitted then?
In terms of my own business, I am actively reducing the number of emails I send plus unsubscribing from email newsletters I have auto enrolled to over the years to reduce the number I receive. I know it’s only a small change, but if every email sent has a carbon footprint of 4g, I have some accounts with 160KG worth of carbon emissions that I have never even opened.
What are your thoughts? Can you make a small change too? If you are interested in reading more, here is a rather nicely designed infographic on the very subject. It makes interesting reading, plus it will make you think about your lifestyle choices.. I know I now feel guilty for all my casual internet browsing!