Digital media content consumption has transformed how we engage with information and entertainment. From streaming services to social media platforms, our reliance on digital content has never been greater. From streaming services to social media platforms, our reliance on digital content has never been greater. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), global internet usage reached 5.5 billion in 2024, marking an increase of 227 million from 2023’s 5.3 billion, highlighting a world increasingly interconnected through digital means.
However, this surge in digital media consumption comes with significant environmental costs. The production and streaming of digital content require substantial energy resources, contributing to a growing carbon footprint. A study by the Shift Project reveals that video streaming alone accounts for about 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions—an amount comparable to the emissions produced by the entire aviation industry.
The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend. Lockdown measures led to a staggering increase in internet usage, with a Yale-led study finding that online activity surged by up to 40% during the early months of the pandemic. This spike resulted in an additional demand for 42.6 million megawatt-hours of electricity, enough to generate an extra 34.3 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions if remote work continues.
As awareness of these impacts grows, there is a pressing need for sustainable practices in digital media consumption. Initiatives like the Greening of Streaming alliance aim to promote energy-efficient streaming techniques and responsible content production. By adopting such measures, the digital media industry can begin to mitigate its environmental footprint while continuing to provide valuable services to consumers.
A look at ASEAN
In the ASEAN region, trends in digital media consumption mirror global patterns. Countries within this dynamic bloc are increasingly adopting digital technologies, creating both opportunities and challenges for sustainability. According to a report by Google and Temasek, Southeast Asia’s internet economy is projected to reach $300 billion by 2025, driven largely by e-commerce and online entertainment.
Yet this rapid growth poses significant environmental challenges. The region grapples with inadequate infrastructure for managing e-waste and rising energy demands from data centers. Recognizing these issues, ASEAN nations have begun implementing initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable digital media practices. For instance, regional collaborations focus on improving recycling systems for electronic devices and reducing energy consumption in media production.
Singapore is leading the charge with policies that encourage energy efficiency and sustainability in technology usage. The Singapore Green Plan 2030 outlines strategies for reducing carbon emissions across various sectors, including digital technologies. By fostering regional cooperation and sharing best practices, ASEAN countries can address the environmental impacts of digital media consumption while reaping its economic benefits.
Focus on the Philippines
In the Philippines, digital media consumption has seen explosive growth in recent years. At the start of 2024, there were 1.8 million more Filipinos online, bringing the overall number of internet users to 86.98 million, up 2.1% from the previous year, while internet penetration stood at 73.6%. The country had 86.75 million social media users in January 2024, equating to 73.4% of the total population; and a total of 117.4 million active cellular mobile connections equaling 99.3% of the total population (yes, we really do have more smartphones than people).
While these numbers are impressive, the country faces significant issues related to e-waste management and inadequate infrastructure for proper disposal of electronic devices. The Global E-waste Monitor indicates that the Philippines generated approximately 1.2 million metric tons of e-waste in 2019 alone. Much of this waste ends up in landfills or is illegally exported, posing serious health and environmental risks.
To combat these challenges, local initiatives are emerging aimed at promoting sustainable digital media practices among consumers and businesses alike. Educational campaigns encourage responsible consumption behaviors—such as reducing video streaming quality when possible—to lessen energy demands. Furthermore, government policies are beginning to emphasize green technology adoption and improved waste management systems.
For example, initiatives like the Philippine E-Waste Project aim to raise awareness about proper disposal methods and promote recycling programs for electronic devices. By fostering a culture of sustainability in digital media consumption, the Philippines can mitigate its environmental impact while continuing to benefit from technological advancements.
As digital media content consumption continues to rise globally, it is imperative for stakeholders—including governments, businesses, and consumers—to adopt sustainable practices that minimize environmental impacts. Prioritizing energy efficiency in content production and distribution while encouraging responsible consumer behaviors will help pave the way toward a greener digital future.
The path ahead requires collaboration across sectors—policymakers must ensure transparency regarding the environmental footprints of digital products while businesses innovate toward sustainability. As consumers become more aware of their habits’ environmental implications, they can make informed choices that positively impact our planet.
In an era where technology plays an integral role in our lives, understanding its environmental impact is crucial for achieving sustainability goals. The journey toward sustainable digital media consumption is not just necessary; it is essential for safeguarding our environment for future generations.
