Protecting the environment

This is the partial competence 4.5 in the competence area 4 “Safety” of the Digital Competence Framework for Austria.

What is it about?

The competence area refers to the ability of people to be aware of the environmental impact of digital technologies and their use. This also includes protecting the environment by means of a conscious and sustainable use of technology.

What does it mean in practice?

Here’s an example: a smartphone contains different raw materials that need to be extracted from nature. Among them are valuable materials such as gold, silver, platinum or copper, which can be preserved through proper recycling. In addition, long-term negative environmental impacts can be avoided, or at least contained, through the sustainable extraction of raw materials. However, smartphones usually contain harmful substances such as heavy metals like lead, bromine or chromium. Therefore, they must not simply end up in household waste. Digitally competent people know this and can dispose of smartphones, laptops and the like in an environmentally friendly way. They can also understand the environmental impact of manufacturing technical equipment, reflect about it and make sustainable purchasing decisions.

Why is that important?

Those who do not dispose of smartphones and other digital devices properly risk endangering people and the environment. In addition, you should be aware that the raw materials for smartphones are often not obtained in Austria, but sometimes in countries with less stringent environmental regulations. A conscious purchasing decision for sustainably and fairly produced electrical devices can help minimise negative aspects of equipment manufacturing. Overall, it is important to think about the production and disposal of equipment, and to avoid negative environmental impacts within the scope of one’s own opportunities.

Where can I continue learning?

On the homepage of fit4internet, you will find further background information on the Digital Competence Framework for Austria under the heading “Understanding”. In the section “Learning”, you will find learning offers to increase your digital competence.