The future is modular; how Framework Computer, Inc. challenges tech ethics

This ethical research report delves into the pressing issue of electronic waste (e-waste) and its environmental implications. With e-waste rapidly increasing, the report highlights the alarming statistics, such as the EU's e-waste recycling rate being less than 40%. The report underscores the importance of sustainable practices and introduces Framework, a company at the forefront of this change. Framework's innovative approach to electronics, particularly laptops, emphasises repairability, upgradability, and sustainability. The company's products, like the Framework Laptop 13 and Laptop 16, are designed to be fully modular, allowing users to easily replace or upgrade components. This not only extends the device's lifespan but also reduces e-waste. The report further discusses the 'right to repair' movement, emphasising the autonomy of individuals to repair and modify their own devices. The movement is gaining traction as more people demand products they can personally repair. The report concludes by emphasising the need for a collective shift in mindset, from a throwaway culture to one that values sustainability and longevity. The report further explores the role of open-source technologies, their potential pitfalls, and the stakeholders involved in the tech industry's ethical landscape.