As Microsoft prepares to sunset Windows 10 in October 2025, millions of laptops and desktops—many of them still perfectly functional—are facing forced obsolescence. But this transition isn’t just about operating systems. It’s a wake-up call for the tech industry and its users.

🌍 The true cost of the upgrade cycle

When an OS reaches end-of-life, the environmental consequences ripple far beyond software updates. Consider:

🌳 E-waste explosion – Thousands of tonnes of devices could end up in landfills simply because they no longer receive updates.
🌳 Rare earth extraction – New devices mean more mining of finite materials, often with devastating environmental impacts.
🌳 Artificial obsolescence – Perfectly usable hardware is rendered “outdated” not by performance, but by policy.

💡 What can end users do?

Before you assume you have to buy a new device, consider these more sustainable alternatives:

🔁 Repurpose or upgrade – Many Windows 10 PCs can be upgraded with more RAM or an SSD to boost performance.

💻 Install lightweight operating systems – Consider Linux-based alternatives like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS that work well on older hardware and are secure, open-source, and free.

🔧 Support Right to Repair – Choose brands and services that make parts and repair guides accessible. This extends your device’s life and supports a more circular tech economy.

🛠️ Seek professional refurbishers – If your device no longer fits your needs, donate or sell it to a certified refurbisher rather than sending it to landfill.

🌱 Rethink your tech stack – Cloud-based and web-first workflows often require fewer hardware resources, keeping older machines useful longer.

💬 Bigger questions for the tech industry

As professionals in tech, we must take a hard look at how our industry balances progress with responsibility:

🏗️ Are we designing smarter, longer-lasting systems?
🗣️ Are we doing enough to advocate for #RightToRepair and open standards?
⚖️ Can we innovate without accelerating waste and inequality?

The end of Windows 10 shouldn’t be the start of another landfill surge.

💭 It’s time to look beyond version numbers and start designing and choosing technology that lasts.