The Hidden Cost of Smart Tech

AI systems, connected devices, and wearables are often marketed as efficient and low-friction, but they depend on energy, materials, cooling, logistics, and disposal systems. Analyze the hidden environmental footprint of digital technologies across their full lifecycle. Then propose a practical checklist for evaluating whether a new AI product or wearable is truly sustainable, taking into account electricity use, hardware turnover, supply chains, and end-of-life waste.