Balancing Technological Innovation and Environmental Sustainability: A Lifecycle Analysis of 6G Wireless Communication Technology

Dharmendra Chauhan, Hiren Mewada, Vishva Gondalia, Faris A. Almalki, Sagarkumar Patel, Hardik Modi, Sagar Kavaiya, Y. N. Trivedi, Hana Mujlid

Wireless communication has revolutionized the evolution of humankind. The rapid growth and development of mobile communication has created an ecosystem better than what has been before. However, issues such as ample energy consumption and resulting carbon emissions, a lack of proper disposal mechanisms for large amounts of electronic waste, and the recycling of electronic materials interrupt growth. When the world is waiting for the implementation of 6G mobile communication technology, it is mandatory to resolve these issues for the sustainability of 6G technology. In this review, we present the superiority of 6G over previous generations accompanied by issues that cause extensive damage to the environment. To mitigate this adverse effect, we present a lifecycle analysis of 6G wireless communication technology from production to disposal, focusing on issues surrounding electronic waste, energy consumption, and environmental impact. This study explains the intricacies of electronic parts, toxic compounds, and the dangers of incorrect disposal techniques. It also investigates energy consumption issues specific to 6G technology, such as manufacturing processes and network infrastructures that require considerable energy. We also present a quantitative evaluation of the 6G lifecycle in detail. In addition, we present a comprehensive strategy and insights to make 6G sustainable. Furthermore, we suggest an ecological policy for all stakeholders for the sustainability of 6G. We also present political and commercial implications for 6G. As the process of 6G development continues, we show the impact of network fragmentation on standardization, which helps improve sustainability. Finally, we conclude that while the existing research has made significant advances in 6G, there is a need for correct disposal techniques to refine the key government policies for managing e-waste. New cooling technologies and renewable energy sources must be adopted to reduce the current greenhouse emission of 200 g of CO2 and energy consumption of 2.5 kWh per GB for 6G networks.