2. Environmental Impact of Computers
Nov 13 / Act B22
Environmental Impact of Computers
LEARNING TARGET: I can analyze the data to conclude what the most important environmental factors are to consider when manufacturing computers
CH Q
What is the environmental impact of manufacturing a computer?
VOCAB:
hazardous waste recyclability
"dangerous left-overs"
how easy to use again

3. DISCUSSION
List the parts that make up a desktop computer.

4. DISCUSSION
What materials are computers made of?
- What parts made of glass?
- From metal?
- From plastic?
monitor
frame - circuits
just about everything else!
Why do you think each material was chosen for each specific part?
Glass - transparent
Metal - conduct electricity
Plastic - light, strong,
easily shaped

5. Which material do you think is most abundant in a computer by weight?

6. DISCUSSION cont.
If you were going to buy a computer, list the factors you would consider in making your decision?
usually in order:
cost
speed/capabilities
warranty
Which of those are “Green factors”?
none (usually not thought of)

7. PROCEDURE AND DATA
MATERIALS:
PROCEDURE: Read on pg. B and summarize
DATA: WS 22.1a/b Graphing Computer Components

8. DISCUSS & WRITE:
Identify at least four (4) conclusions (statements) that can be drawn from the information found in each of the graphs about computer manufacturing.

9. Four Conclusions from Table 1 are:
1. plastic most % weight
2. glass close 2nd % weight
3. plastic + glass = ½ weight
4. metals ~ = other ½ weight

10. Four Conclusions for Table 2 graph:
1. glass heaviest
2. chip wasteful
3. board wasteful AND most is dangerous
4. glass almost no waste

11. ANALYSIS
- Discuss and answer Q 3 on pg. B- 53
ANS CHALLENGE Q
What is the environmental impact of manufacturing a computer? A:
some parts very little impact, some very high
(hopefully “all” can be recycled)
HOMEWORK
1. Catch up on missing work. AND finish Graphs