Sustainable Web Development – using second hand hardware
As a web developer, I’ve always been passionate about creating beautiful, functional websites. But increasingly, I’ve become aware that sustainability isn’t just about the code we write or the servers we use – it’s about every aspect of our work, including how we power ourselves, how we travel and the equipment we use daily.
I have looked into every way my work contributes to environmental degradation and this includes the kit I use to enable me to do my work.
Why I don’t use new kit
The statistics are sobering. Each year, the world generates approximately 62 million tonnes of electronic waste, and only about 22% is formally recycled. Behind these numbers lies a complex web of environmental challenges: toxic materials leaching into soil, precious metals being lost to landfills, and the massive carbon footprint of manufacturing new devices.
This reality led me to make a conscious decision: to build websites using refurbished and second-hand equipment. It’s a small but meaningful contribution to reducing e-waste and demonstrating that professional-quality work doesn’t necessarily require the latest gear.
My Sustainable Setup
Here’s what my current work setup looks like:
- A refurbished MacBook Pro laptop which is still going strong after 8 years
- Two second-hand ASUS monitors – 4 years
- Apple Wireless Magic Keyboard – second hand from eBay – 4 years
- Magic Mouse 2 from Apple Refurbished store – 5 years
- Google Pixel 6, second-hand – 3 years
The Benefits Beyond Environmental Impact
Choosing refurbished equipment has taught me several valuable lessons:
Quality Over Novelty
Many professional-grade devices are built to last. My refurbished MacBook Pro, for instance, is still fast and working well. as it is now over 8 years old, it is getting toward the end of its life, but for now it works well. So buying quality really does improve the longevity of devices.
The Impact on My Work
Some might wonder if using refurbished equipment affects the quality of my web development work. The answer is a resounding no. All my kit works efficiently and most importantly it is fast.
Financial Benefits
The IT industry produces so much waste that it just makes sense to use second-hand kit. However, it also makes financial sense.
Second-hand kit is always cheaper than buying new and involves less downtime from swapping out old kit for new. If you then look after the kit you have, rather than buying new at the first signs of wear, you can make your hardware last longer – reducing the number of times you need to buy kit.
Getting Started with Refurbished Equipment
For fellow developers interested in making the switch, here are my recommendations:
- Research reputable refurbishers and sellers in your area
- Focus on good quality equipment, which tends to be more durable
- Check warranty options and return policies
- Use the Apple refurbished store
- Learn basic maintenance and repair skills
So…
By choosing refurbished equipment, we’re not just building websites – we’re contributing to a more sustainable digital industry. It’s proof that professional web development can go hand in hand with environmental responsibility.
Every piece of equipment we keep in use is one less in the landfill, and one step closer to a more sustainable future.