Healthcare devices could generate 100 million tons of CO2 by 2050

A study by the University of Chicago and Cornell University projects that demand for healthcare electronic devices could reach about 2 billion units annually by 2050, a 42-fold increase from current levels. These devices, often disposable due to concerns about performance degradation and infection, could collectively generate over 100 million tons of CO2 and more than a million tons of electronic waste by mid-century if no mitigation measures are taken. The research highlights that the environmental footprint of these devices is largely driven by their printed circuit boards, which account for over 70% of their carbon emissions, far outweighing the impact of plastics or sensors. The study emphasizes the significant energy consumption and waste generated by mining precious metals like gold used in integrated circuits, despite the small quantities required per chip. To address these challenges, the researchers propose two main solutions: developing new chip technologies that use more abundant and less environmentally damaging metals such as copper or aluminum, and redesigning devices to reduce reliance on rare minerals. This comprehensive life-cycle analysis