In a world where over a billion smartphones are produced annually, many outdated ones are destined for landfills.
Each year, smartphone production around the globe reaches more than 1.2 billion, which intensively consumes valuable natural resources.
Given that today’s users replace their still-functional phones every two to three years, researchers at the University of Tartu Institute of Computer Science in Estonia have demonstrated a novel approach: Transforming them into micro data centres capable of efficiently processing and storing data, which would flip the script on the destined electronic waste.
This groundbreaking but low-cost innovation, tested by multiple researchers, provides a wide range of practical applications – from tracking real-time data of bus passengers for the course of traffic optimisation, to monitoring marine life without having to look for new tech.
“Innovation often begins not with something new, but with a new way of thinking about the old,” explained Huber Flores, associate professor of pervasive computing.
Throughout various stages of the project implementation, the team’s conclusions have opened a new direction for superseded devices. With minimal resources, the phones are granted a chance to contribute to the development of more sustainable digital solutions, rather than end up as waste.
“Sustainability is not just about preserving the future – it’s about reimagining the present, where yesterday’s devices become tomorrow’s opportunities,” said Ulrich Norbisrath, associate professor of software engineering.
