Microsoft’s decision to cease Windows 10 support by October 2025 might render 240 million PCs obsolete and add to landfill garbage. Recycling technologies can reduce environmental effect despite low demand for devices without security updates. Hard drives may become magnets for sustainable technology, and batteries can be recycled endlessly.
Canalys Research predicts that Microsoft Corporation’s October 2025 Windows 10 support end will increase electronic waste. Approximately 240 million personal computers could become obsolete, contributing to landfill garbage. The predicted 480 million kg of PC electrical garbage is equivalent to 320,000 vehicles.
Despite these PCs possibly working for years after support ends, demand for devices without security upgrades is predicted to be modest. Microsoft offers Windows 10 security updates until October 2028 for an unknown yearly cost. If prolonged support costs follow historical trends, users may find it cheaper to upgrade to newer PCs. Older PCs may be discarded more.
Recycling technology offers hope for environmental protection. Recycling PC and server hard drives yields materials for electric vehicle motors and renewable power. Noveon Magnetics Chief Commercial Officer Peter Afiuny suggested turning old computers into magnets for electric vehicles and wind turbines.
Afiuny further stated that hard drives are often abandoned before their lifespan, resulting in rare earth magnetic material waste. Redwood Materials noted that batteries may be recycled virtually endlessly, recovering lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper. This recycling procedure can help meet worldwide electricity and sustainable technology needs.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s decision to cease Windows 10 support by October 2025 might render 240 million PCs obsolete and add to landfill garbage. The projected weight of PC electronic garbage is 480 million kilos. Devices may be working, but security updates are unlikely to be popular. Microsoft’s proposed security updates until October 2028 cost an unspecified annual price, which may increase PC disposal. Recycling hard drives for electric car motors and renewable power generation gives hope for environmental protection.
