Having the new technology is definitely a want , especially when you see everyone else with a new device it makes you want to invest in one. Apple devices especially , they release a new gadget many times throughout the year. I feel as if people just want to stay ahead of others and on updated with the new trends. I usually get a new cellphone every 2-3 years unless it is broken, then I will get a new phone ASAP. I never consider the environmental impact of my purchases , I usually just buy what I want when it is needed.

New technology is mostly I want But it could also be a need some new technology can be replacing older ones. Such as phone, phones don't last forever so sometimes you do need a new one if your old one stops working. I usually get a new phone every 2 years.No one really needs the new models it's more of a want. nowadays teens and kids are more addicted to technology because of apps. I never consider the impact the environmental impact of these purchases.

Hi Nia and Samantha - I agree with you both and I really try not to buy new electronics.  In addition to the carbon footprint of producing new phones, there is all the toxic waste (including batteries) and the rare metal and other components (like cobalt and lithium) which are mined using what are generally environmentally destructive extraction methods.

See this BBC report entitled Your old phone is full of untapped precious metals

...and this Washington Post expose entitled The Cobalt Pipeline: Tracing the path from deadly hand-dug mines in Congo to consumers’ phones and laptops

So what to do?

When my phone breaks I fix it! There are great repair shops that can fix smartphones for $100 or less.  If the phone is really destroyed or totally obsolete, then I buy refurbished phones from legitimate sellers.  You can even get a full warranty on those - it;'s like going to a second hand store but getting a warranty!