International. The digital pollution generated by cloud storage and the widespread use of the internet, e-commerce and social networks is a reality that is having a significant impact on the environment at a global level.
Therefore, it is important that companies and individuals adopt "digital hygiene" as a practice that involves deleting useless data from our online history. This was explained by technology expert Norberto Maldonado.
Every click, internet search, and email sent is recorded; the photos uploaded to Facebook since 2004 – the year the platform was founded – and all our messages and memes shared on WhatsApp, are stored somewhere, which implies a consumption of energy, resources and a considerable environmental 
impact.
"Despite the intensive use of the Internet in our lives, its environmental impact has only just begun to be studied, mainly from studies that record the massive energy consumption of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector," explains Maldonado.
Internet access has already reached more than 5 billion people, approximately 60% of the world's population, resulting in a global data traffic of 3.4 ZB. The average internet user spends approximately seven hours a day online, accounting for more than 40% of the time they are awake, of which social media and video streaming are the most consumed digital services, with more than two hours a day.
In the case of Mexico, according to the MX Internet Association, the number of Internet users reached 101.9 million in 2024, which represents a growth of 5.2% and 84% of the population over 6 years of age. This means a noticeable increase in the average time spent connecting to the Internet, with 39% of users connected for 9 hours or more per day.
According to studies, just one data center consumes the equivalent of the average of 50 thousand houses. With more than 200 terawatt hours (tWh) of annual consumption, the Cloud uses more energy than many countries in the world. All this energy also translates into greenhouse gases.
That is why it is imperative to adopt "digital hygiene" practices, regularly removing unnecessary data from our devices and online accounts. This
it will contribute to reducing digital pollution and help mitigate the environmental impact associated with the growing use of digital technologies.
Innovations in energy-efficient technology, increased use of renewable energy sources, and improved waste management practices are among the measures being taken to mitigate these impacts. However, as our reliance on digital technology increases, so does the urgency to find sustainable solutions.
"Digital hygiene" is a practice that, when adopted on a massive scale, can drive the balance between our ever-increasing digital demands and the protection of our environment.
Within the framework of key dates such as World Environment Day (June 5), it is worth reflecting that, "both technological innovation and a collective awareness of
our digital footprint are relevant to combat pollution and achieve a more sustainable digital world," concludes Norberto Maldonado.
