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The web is probably the most revolutionary thing we have created as humans in the last century.
But it’s also a polluting invention.
The internet consumes enormous amounts of energy. If the internet were a country, it would rank as the sixth largest consumer of electricity globally.
And websites contribute massively to this.
In 2024 alone, we designed and launched 91,980,000 new websites—that’s a whopping 252,000 websites per day. Each one of these websites runs on servers that require electricity to operate and cool down, contributing to a growing environmental footprint.
So can web design be more sustainable and help reduce the footprint of the internet?
It definitely can. So let’s have a look at what are the causes of the problem and how we can help tackle it.
The digital ecosystem is often perceived as intangible and therefore harmless to the environment. However, every website, app, and digital product relies on vast data centers, many of which run on non-renewable energy sources. In fact, the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) sector is responsible for approximately 3-4% of global greenhouse gas emissions—a figure comparable to the aviation industry.
With the number of websites and users increasing exponentially, the challenge is clear: how do we balance innovation and sustainability in the digital space?
The good news is that designers have a unique opportunity to make the internet more sustainable. Thoughtful design choices can significantly reduce a website’s energy consumption and, in turn, its environmental impact.
Here are seven practical ways designers can help create a greener internet:
Designing with intention means giving users exactly what they need—and nothing more. Extraneous features, unnecessary animations, or overly complex interfaces can lead to longer load times and higher energy consumption. Focus on streamlining user journeys and decluttering pages to reduce resource use while improving user experience.
Images and videos are often the heaviest elements on a website. Use modern formats like WebP for images, compress files to reduce their size, and avoid autoplay for videos. Additionally, embed video content rather than hosting it directly to lighten server loads.
Fast websites are not only better for user experience but also consume less energy. Achieve this by:
The choice of hosting provider makes a significant difference. Opt for hosting services powered by renewable energy. Providers like GreenGeeks, SiteGround, and DreamHost are examples of environmentally friendly options.
Extra tip: to find the most sustainable web hosting provider for your needs, check out this comprehensive guide: The Best Green Web Hosting Providers.
Dark mode not only appeals to users but can also reduce energy consumption on OLED and AMOLED screens. Additionally, designing with fewer bright whites and more subdued tones helps reduce power usage.
Accessible websites are inherently more efficient because they are optimized for clarity and usability. By following WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), you reduce unnecessary complexity and cater to a broader audience.
Caching reduces the need to repeatedly fetch data from the server. Use browser caching and content delivery networks (CDNs) to store website resources closer to users, cutting down on energy use for data transfer.
Heavy JavaScript frameworks can slow websites down and consume more energy. Choose lightweight alternatives or minimize scripts wherever possible.
Just as you perform SEO or performance audits, incorporate sustainability checks into your workflow. Tools like Website Carbon Calculator or EcoGrader can measure your website’s environmental impact and suggest areas for improvement.
Designers have the power to inspire change. Educate clients and stakeholders about the importance of sustainability in digital products and advocate for eco-friendly choices throughout the project lifecycle.
Sustainable design is no longer optional—it’s a responsibility. By making conscious choices, designers can reduce the environmental footprint of digital products while improving usability and performance.
The internet’s impact on the planet is significant, but so is its potential for positive change. With every decision you make—be it choosing a green host, optimizing images, or simplifying a user interface—you’re contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.
Let’s create digital experiences that are not just innovative and functional but also kind to the planet. The time to act is now.
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