With its new completely net-zero flash drive, TeamGroup has stepped forward as yet another technology company that reduces the use of new plastics and tackles some of the problems associated with the inevitable evil of electronic waste. [The C175 ECO is an eco-friendly USB 3.2 Gen 1 flash drive from TeamGroup, which introduced the first PCIe 5.0 storage for non-server use, available in 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB capacities with read speeds up to 100MB/sec.

TeamGroup claims that it has successfully reduced the carbon footprint of its manufacturing process by 69%, and that its recycled plastic will not decompose.

More than 347Mt (million tons) of e-waste is currently piling up around the world, with 57.4Mt generated in 2021 alone, and the number is growing, averaging several million tons each year since then. It is not known how much of that is accounted for by flash drives, but given the huge number of flash drives distributed for free, one would guess that it is a significant amount.

What to do with old flash drives is not always easy. Many people will not give up their flash drives forever if they are in danger of losing their data. Mine are just scattered around in drawers because I can't be bothered to get rid of them right now. Basically, they are inconsequential in the grand scheme of things, which is why they tend to end up in the trash. And the unwanted high-tech items in the cupboards are still mostly considered e-waste.

Let's face it. No one is going to go all the way to a special e-recycling point for that little dongle they found in a drawer. But at least there are companies working to make flash drives more sustainable. And they are not the kind of companies that would have me plant a tree for eco-impact with their customers.

According to TechPowerUp, every C175 ECO sold saves a mere 0.1% of two A4 papers or a 600 ml plastic bottle. A small accumulation adds up to a big power.

Not only are there nifty little storage clips that can prevent lost caps and increased e-waste, but they also add another cute addition to the matcha green tech trend we're currently seeing. It's the right color for green stuff. As an added bonus, it comes with a lifetime warranty.