The manufacture and running of all the world's computers, the toxicity of the hardware mountains that we currently dump on other countries; all this can be totted up on the environmental account of web-users and its authors.

Tristram Stuart’s quote highlights the environmental impact of the growing reliance on computers and digital technology. He points out that the manufacture and operation of computers, along with the toxic waste generated from discarded hardware, contribute significantly to global environmental problems. By emphasizing the toxicity of the electronic waste dumped in other countries, Stuart draws attention to the often-hidden consequences of our digital consumption, suggesting that every web-user and digital author is indirectly responsible for these environmental costs.

Stuart is making the argument that, while people enjoy the conveniences of the Internet and digital technology, they often fail to consider the hidden costs that come with it. These costs include not just the energy consumption required to run computers and servers but also the environmental toll of producing and disposing of electronic devices. The hardware mountains—piles of discarded electronic waste—are often shipped to less developed nations where they are poorly managed, leading to severe environmental and health hazards.

The quote also speaks to the accountability of those involved in creating and using digital technologies. Stuart suggests that the web-users and the authors of digital content should recognize their role in perpetuating a system that causes environmental harm. This brings attention to the broader issue of sustainability in the tech industry, calling for a shift towards more responsible and eco-friendly practices in both manufacturing and disposal.

Originating from Stuart’s work as an environmental activist and author, the quote reflects his deep concern for the environmental implications of global consumption patterns, including the consumption of digital technology. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the environmental footprint of the digital world, urging a more conscious approach to technology that takes into account its full impact on the planet.