Some Pros and Cons of Paper Backs Versus Ebooks
TS
Have you ever sat down and thought about paperback versus ebooks? Which is better for the environment? Which is a more 'genuine' product? Well, we publish our books with ShadowScript Publications in both paper and ebook versions, but we have given this a lot of thought over recent months.
Ebooks have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering readers a convenient and portable way to access a wide range of literature. At least, that's what the ads happily tell us. However, like any form of technology, there are both pros and cons to consider for embracing the digital reading experience versus the traditional paperback.
Let's take a quick look at some stats; The Pew Research Center survey conducted from January 25th to February 8th, 2021 reported that print books remain the most popular format for reading, with 65% of American adults saying that they have read a print book in the past year. I know this is only one book, but there are quite a lot of Americans! Sales of printed books in 2020 topped 200 million, the highest number since 2012.
Ebook sales revenue in the US was estimated to reach $4.23 billion in 2023. 38.7% of people aged 18-29 in the United States read e-books in 2020. Ebooks made up 18% of the US trade book market in 2021. Interestingly, the share of adults with an annual household income of less than $30,000 who have listened to an audiobook increased 8 percentage points since 2019 (22% vs. 14%) according to Pew (2022).
Pros of Ebooks
One of the primary advantages of ebooks is their portability. With a single e-reader or tablet, readers can carry an entire library with them wherever they travel, making it easy to access a variety of books on the go. An average text-only ebook takes up between 1MB and 2MB storage space, meaning an 8GB Kindle can store between 3,000 and 6,000 Ebooks. In fact, higher-end models with 32GB or more can store tens of thousands of Ebooks. I regularly pop my Ebook into my leather satchel along with my MacBook and notebook assured I have hundreds of hours of entertainment ahead of me.
Another benefit of Ebooks is the ability to customize the reading experience. Readers can adjust font sizes, styles, and brightness levels to suit their preferences, making it easier for individuals with visual impairments to enjoy reading. I find this a really useful facility, as do many of my friends.
A huge supposed benefit is that ebooks also offer a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional printed books. By reducing the need for paper and ink, digital books contribute to conservation efforts and help minimize the impact on the environment, and the stats on this are staggering. A single metric tonne of paper requires around 17 trees – an average of 59 kilos of paper per tree. To put this in context, an average 400-page paperback weighs about 600 grams. And, one tree can generate only 100 paperback books. Let's look a little closer. When one considers production and transport, the average paperback has whirled its way through 4.5kWh of energy by the time it lands on the bookshelf and then one has to take into account the energy consumed in getting into a village, town or city bookstore.
Cons of Ebooks
While Ebooks offer many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider. A key question is, are ebooks really as environmentally friendly as people claim? Well, it might be surprising, but the short answer is no. Researchers estimate that almost 299 litres of water are needed to make a single EReader. That's a lot of water.
Another concern is the potential for digital eye strain, which can occur during prolonged screen time when reading on electronic devices. We've all been there...Outside in the sunshine and it's hard to see the screen compared to print on a page in a paperback book.
Some readers may miss the tactile experience of flipping through physical pages and the unique smell and feel of a printed book. The sensory aspects of reading are an integral part of the traditional reading experience that digital books cannot fully replicate. And I am firmly in this camp. I still love the 'feel' of a book in my hands.
Another downside of ebooks is the potential for distractions. With the internet and social media just a tap away, readers may find it challenging to stay focused on the story at hand, leading to reduced immersion and enjoyment.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to embrace Ebooks or stick with traditional printed books is personal, and each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Whether you prefer the convenience of digital reading or the sensory experience of physical books, both formats offer unique benefits for book lovers to enjoy.
References
https://commercialwaste.trade/e-readers-vs-books-better-environment/