Digital technology has a climate impact. Internet use relies on data centres and networks that consume electricity and water and phones and laptops create a significant carbon footprint through mining, manufacturing and global shipping.

Computing vs climate is a classroom ready 6 lesson KS3 Computing unit that helps pupils understand how everyday digital habits and devices affect the planet. Pupils explore the hidden footprint of internet use, then look at streaming, gaming and dark data before moving into manufacturing impact, short device lifespans and e-waste. The unit finishes with pupils creating a realistic action plan and a persuasive poster that encourages greener digital choices.

Pupils learn that the internet is physical, powered by routers, cables, mobile masts and data centres that run day and night. They identify which online habits drive the highest data demand, why HD streaming and video calls can be high-impact and how to reduce impact through realistic swaps like lowering quality, turning off auto-play, downloading once and tidying unused files.

They also explore why most of a device’s footprint often happens before it is even switched on due to mining, manufacturing and shipping. Pupils learn how repair, refurbished choices and proper recycling reduce repeated manufacturing and e-waste. They also consider how technology can be part of the solution through smart efficiency, remote work and digital documents while applying a trade-off mindset to make balanced decisions.

Everything is fully planned and ready to teach so you can deliver with confidence.

Includes fully editable PowerPoint presentations, lesson plans and worksheets.

Lessons included

1. The invisible footprint
2. Streaming, gaming and dark data
3. The real impact
4. E-waste: toxic or treasure?
5. Can technology be part of the solution?
6. Design a greener digital life

Who is this for?

Ideal for KS3 computing classes and perfect for teachers who want a modern, relevant unit linking computing to real world climate impact with clear explanations, discussion tasks and practical decision making.

Help pupils understand the hidden footprint of their digital lives and build habits that reduce impact without giving up the technology they enjoy.