Exploring the Impact of Technology on Energy Consumption and Sustainability

Current consumer frustration stems from appliances having shorter lifespans and being difficult to repair, highlighting a significant opportunity for improvement in product durability. The increasing energy demands of cryptocurrencies and artificial intelligence are placing substantial pressure on energy utilities, often forcing them to rely on fossil fuels, which complicates the transition to renewable energy sources. The existing economic framework tends to favor profits over innovation, resulting in a scarcity of high-quality public goods, such as effective public transit systems and energy-efficient technology. A more democratic economic approach could redirect investment towards socially and ecologically beneficial technologies. The challenge of patents hinders the dissemination of vital technologies, exemplified by COVID-19 vaccines and renewable energy solutions, restricting global access and innovation. Advocating for a suspension of patents could enable faster distribution of technology and encourage global innovation, as it would allow engineers worldwide to build upon existing designs while addressing social and ecological needs more effectively.