Technological obsolescence occurs when functioning hardware becomes unusable because its supporting software is no longer available or newer software exceeds its capabilities. The device may remain physically sound while software support, processing power, or memory leaves it behind. section 8.2.2 section 8.6
A working device that cannot be used
A digital photo frame can stop working when its manufacturer shuts down the required cloud service. A child’s tablet can remain in good condition but lose access to new apps because its operating system is no longer updated. Rapidly expanding web pages, with larger images, libraries, and background scripts, can similarly push older hardware beyond its practical limits. section 8.2.2 section 8.2.2
Obsolescence matters because:
- Replacing usable hardware creates additional environmental debt when most of its carbon impact has already been produced during manufacturing. section 8.2.2
- Longer use, repair, reuse, and repurposing help amortize embodied carbon over a device’s lifespan. section 8.2.2
- Efficient software can reduce pressure on older devices through frugal features, lean dependencies, efficient execution, and controlled memory use. section 8.6
