this post was submitted on 16 Dec 2023
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Yes that’s true but the reason I listen to broadcast radio in the first place is because I’m on a limited connection. Broadcast radio consumes zero internet bandwidth. It’s also a lower carbon footprint (the transmission energy is spent whether I receive it or not).
Your first point makes total sense, interesting to know, thanks. Your second point i would guess probably doesn't make sense. You'd probably have to stream an enormous amount of internet radio before it would create more pollution than is created by buying the hardware components that you're talking about.
The CO₂ footprint of streaming is significant. That article is about video, and audio would be much less, but when you listen to the audio all day long it’s significant enough.
There’s also a privacy factor. To stream radio online with the same level of privacy as receiving a radio broadcast requires using Tor, which likely triples the footprint with the 3 encrypted hops.
W.r.t hardware, my DAB player is a multi-function device; not just a tuner but also speakers, bluetooth & USB. It’s the same speakers I would use if playing an internet stream. To improve reception the hardware to add for the antenna is quite simple: aluminum pipe, bolts, and coax.. nothing that would generate more e-waste.