Abstract
Podcasting is a large and swiftly growing industry that entertains, informs, and connects massive audiences worldwide. Yet the environmental impacts of podcasting have received little attention. This paper examines the carbon footprint of podcasts through the energy usage of both distributing and consuming podcasts in Canada. Research into the carbon footprint of media consumption remains relatively sparse. Podcasts merit particular attention due to their unique patterns of digital distribution and consumption. Using statistics from major podcast websites and market research firms as well as data on device energy intensity, this paper finds that total distribution of podcasts within the first 30 days of new episodes generates approximately 99,000 kg of carbon dioxide. Within Canada, yearly podcast listening through smartphones, computers, and smart speakers emits approximately 90,000,000 kg of carbon dioxide. Further research may reveal wider impacts of podcasting on listener behaviour, broader media consumption, and other carbon-intensive activities that are complemented, compounded, or substituted by podcasts.
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