Sustainability vs. Software: The Battle Over Device Lifespans

How can we create a fair and sustainable world? The Money for Change podcast explores how money shapes our economy and global progress. We do this together with systems thinker and chief economist at Triodos Bank Hans Stegeman.On October 14th, Microsoft announced that it will end the free support for Windows 10. Yet, around 400 million computers still run on this operating system, and roughly half of them cannot be updated to Windows 11 due to outdated hardware. This is a clear example of the phenomenon planned obsolescence; a business strategy where products are intentionally designed with a limited lifespan, forcing consumers to buy replacements or upgrades. Ironically, this obvious case of planned obsolescence coincided with International E-Waste Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the growing problem of electronic waste. In this episode of Money for Change we reflect with Matija Kajic, sustainability researcher at Triodos Bank, on the broader negative impact planned obsolescence has on our society and the deeper issue it reveals in our economic system; the addiction to limitless growth. We also explore what can be done to address this challenge, for example by advocating for legislation through initiatives like the Right to Repair and the push for corporate transparency to report about the lifespans of their products. Furthermore, we take a critical perspective by examining the difficulties of building a strong business case based on circularity and repairability If you have any comments or questions about this episode, feel free to contact us using the form on our webpage: https://www.triodos.com/en/podcasts/money-for-change Enjoy listening and don’t forget to rate & follow us!