Intro to digital emissions

February 11, 2026

Bristol Climate and Nature Partnership

A room of people sitting down with their backs to the camera, facing towards a screen and presenter Hannah Smith

Talk synopsis

Event write-up

A great group, packed room and lots of reeally interesting questions and angles on the topic.

Key takeaways:

• Digital emissions is a complex topic with a significant environmental footprint, but there are steps that we can all take to reduce this impact.

• Manufacturing emissions of digital tech are often overlooked. Remember that these are a key contributor alongside how digital infrastructure and systems are used.

• Carbon emissions aren’t the only impact of digital use. Consider other environment and social aspects, such as water use, care for communities and mineral mining.

• Start with consumption actions – changing how much digital tech we use. Then look at intensity – using tech in a less harmful way. Then focus on direction – pushing for positive systems change.

• AI is massively driving up energy and water use. Make sure to question your use of AI and if you do need to use it choose responsible suppliers.