E-readers vs print books – which is a more eco-friendly choice? (infographic)

E-readers vs print books - eco-friendly choice

To say e-readers are more eco-friendly than print books is not exactly true, when you count in more factors than just the trees.

CustomMade, an online marketplace for unique furniture, home decor, and other one-of-a-kind items, has created an interesting infographic that brings new light to eco-conscious debate.

The manufacturing of an e-reader produces almost 30 kilograms of carbon dioxide, the gas responsible for climate change. That’s four times more than when producing one print book (7.5 kilograms).

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[ef-archive number=2 tag=”lists” ]

When we compare materials, we have to remember that a growing number of print books is produced from recycled materials. On the other side, manufacturing an e-reader extracts approximately 15 kilograms of minerals, including toxic and conflict materials.

Finally, to make the picture even more dimmed, let’s put usage into the equation. When reading a print book in the evening, a bedside lamp has to be turned on. The same with an e-reader without front light screen.

If evening reading is your habit, you’ll use more energy than it takes to charge a device… on condition it’s an e-ink e-reader. Because with the iPad it’s quite the opposite story.

Check out the original blog post on CustomMade. Besides the comparison, you’ll also find there a useful guide on how to lessen your literary carbon footprint.

Tap or click on the image below to see it in full resolution.

E-readers vs print books - eco-friendly choice? #infographic

Check out more infographics collected on Ebook Friendly:

[ef-archive number=5 tag=”infographics”]

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