Virtual Education: Carbon Footprint and Circularity

Abstract

Virtual education has appeared to upgrade traditional education in different dimensions, such as easing the learning process, developing new teaching methodologies, and eliminating distance barriers. Since the pandemic outbreak by COVID-19, this situation has intensified, forcing students and educators to adapt to this new scenario, which involves staying at home and using electronic devices for long hours, which seems to contribute positively to the environment, as there is no need to attend education centers where physical installations and different services are used. However, little has been said about the environmental impact of virtual learning. Nevertheless, to have a transparent approach and determine virtual education sustainability, it is essential to analyze its implications.