COMPUTERS. Handphones. Digital Cameras. Ipods, and much, much more. As technology advances, it slowly, although, at times, abruptly, invades our daily life. As a society, we accept its uses, and often embrace its many gadgets for they conveniently allow us to complete the many tasks that inundate us, day and night.

However, as the demand for modern technology grows, expectations, if not anticipation, also grow higher, for consumers want more "up-to-date" versions of whatever gadget they already have. "Inferior" models are quickly discarded, and newer ones take their place.

But where does "substandard" technology goes once it is no longer the latest craze? Does its unchecked disposal affect the environment in anyway? In these times of growing environmental awareness, as a result of rising concerns over the future of our planet, one can no longer avoid dismissing such questions.

Here, in Brunei Darussalam, the consumers have sought after the same trend that has affected the rest of the world. They too "need" to acquire whatever latest "tech" that hit the market.

"Alimin", 19, is no exception. He is another trendy consumer; modern technology has provided him with a most efficient platform to communicate easily with his friends, in the form of a gadget that can comfortably fit inside his pocket.

But not all Bruneians find such technology convenient. At least, not 32-year-old Hjh Fatimah Hj Md Zamri, who said, such additional demands, constantly imposed by her children, who too wanted to, like "Alimin" stay "connected" has severely affected her budget .

Unfortunately, for her, she cannot say no, because a computer is now a must for a student's homework. And even latest "mp3 player" devises are becoming essentials. Without them, a teenager is left out. Sadly, group identification is now technology-based.

That said, different people have different perspectives on the ever-growing trend of modern technology, and the way it has affected every individual and his daily choices and habits. But growing demand and consumption, also mean growing technology waste. Thus, the question remains: where does discarded technology go?

But why should we even ponder such issues? Does technology truly advance at the kind of speed that would make technology landfill a major concern.

Marvel at this quote from the Moore's Law, and you will understand. According to Moore's Law, considering "our rate of technological development and advances in the semiconductor industry, the complexity of integrated circuits doubles every 18 months."

In other words, computers, or technology in general, will constantly be getting faster and more powerful in relatively very short periods of time. And there is little chance that such ratio will slow down anytime soon. This means, latest computer models will hit the shops before your two-year warranty on your old computer expires.