By According to Canalys Research, Microsoft’s decision to discontinue support for the Windows 10 operating system could lead to approximately 240 million personal computers being discarded, potentially contributing to landfill waste.
The discarded electronic waste from these PCs is estimated to weigh around 480 million kilograms, equivalent to the weight of 320,000 cars.
While many of these PCs might remain functional even after the end of OS support, Canalys cautioned that the demand for devices lacking security updates could significantly diminish.
Microsoft has unveiled plans to offer security updates for Windows 10 devices until October 2028, albeit at an undisclosed annual price.
Canalys noted that if the pricing model for extended Windows 10 support aligns with historical trends, transitioning to newer PCs might become more cost-effective. However, this shift could result in a higher number of older PCs being scrapped.
Microsoft’s aim to terminate Windows 10 support by October 2025 is anticipated to pave the way for the next generation of the OS, which promises advanced artificial intelligence technology for PCs. This innovation could potentially revitalize the sluggish PC market.
Regarding the environmental impact of disposing of devices incompatible with Windows 11, Microsoft has not yet commented.
Meanwhile, used hard drives from personal computers and data storage servers are recycled to extract materials used in electric vehicle motors and renewable power generation.
Noveon Magnetics Chief Commercial Officer Peter Afiuny highlighted the significance of repurposing end-of-life computers for sustainable technologies like electric vehicles and wind turbines, meeting the growing global demand for electricity. He also noted the surplus of rare earth magnetic material generated by prematurely discarded hard drives.
Redwood Materials, a battery recycling firm, emphasized the nearly infinite recyclability of batteries, enabling the recovery of essential metals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper.
