As a regular reader and physical copy purist, one modern technology trend I’ve resisted is the move to digital books. Whether it’s the comfort of holding something tangible and familiar or simply just habit, I’ve never felt inclined to make the switch. 

However, a recent study commissioned by the UK government has found that reading books on digital devices consumes only a tiny fraction of the electricity used to produce and distribute a printed copy. The study noted that the saving is significant enough that further digitalisation in this area could contribute towards the country’s net zero target. 

This doesn’t mean that we should stop printing physical copies, which still play a vital role in society. They’re an essential tool for education and a powerful connector of communities, as well as providing health and wellness benefits. And let’s not forget the importance of libraries to those on lower incomes or physical copies to people without reliable electricity or internet access. 

What the study does mean is that digital technologies offer an alternative option for consumption, giving us the choice to make our own informed decisions.