07/01/2023
Project Update:
* Focus during 2021-2022
Building on the ideas and practices gained previously, activities were mostly based on establishing an online trading platform to help recycle, reuse and encourage others to follow this model of also reducing waste and consumption.
Examples:
IT and Communication devices have a very short turnover in terms of mainstream brands and items such as phones, tables, and to a lesser extent laptops and even less in terms of desktop PCs.
Obsolescence is a particular problem less in terms of functionality but more so in terms of aesthetics.
That leaves a huge opportunity to explore options and alternatives as to what we can do and our choices when it comes to throwing away stuff that we only bought a year ago or 6 months ago.
The vast majority of IT users rely upon one of two operating systems: Windows and Apple OS, except for high end / corporate environments or special niches. Linux has gained popularity and to the average user has perhaps been 'an experiment' or a curiosity.
What if we can exploit this further?
Using legacy hardware with very 'lean' operating systems such as some distros of Linux one can set-aside special tasks for these old but trusted boxes.
Example:
* Firewall
* Home File Server / print server / webserver / telephony & VOIP
* Game console emulators with legacy stuff
and so on.
The rest can be donated to museums or charities / broken down to sell to hobbyists and other enthusiasts.
For example did you know that old personal computers (or laptops) could be used for radio (amateur radio) etc ?
The bottom line is that we try and delay the urge to dump these components into the refuse and landfills - despite recycling centres.
These contain a mix of chemical compounds, including plastics which are not ecologically friendly and also the fact that disposal is creating additional expenses, CO2 emissions and problems associated with water and soil pollution.
The choices are there but we need to educate ourselves in order to make better decisions.
