Department - Author 1
Graphic Communication Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BA in Liberal Studies
Date
5-2011
Primary Advisor
Doug Speer
Abstract/Summary
Abstract
With accelerating adaptation rates of technological devices, the benefit of electronics in our society has been under scrutiny for some time. People want to know how much are these advancements truly going to benefit the environment instead of harming it as previous practices have done? This study set out to research the current trend of Electronic Readers, also known as E-readers, by comparing them to already established concerns with printed material.
This report was written in order to expose truthfulness in regards to the E-readers' footprint on the environment and the current inadequacies found in observation of practices offered for their recycling.
In order to deliver this information concerning E-readers' environment friendliness and recyclability issues, a variety of research methods were implemented. Along with data collected from previous sources confirming their findings, questions were posed to a broad group of E-reader users, ranging from students to retired professionals.
Research concluded that determining the ecological footprint of an E-reader is based on an individual's usage rate and the importance of the technology in his or her life. Also, findings confirmed that the devices' recycling practices are widely unknown to the public, and as a result confirm the need for change. With the use of descriptive research, surveys, and content analysis, this study explored the ways in which E-readers exemplify both pros and cons against print, and the need for awareness in regards to recycling and the benefits of re-use.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/grcsp/48