Sustainable Substitutes for Windows

Windows is a proprietary operating system developed by Microsoft.

Reasons to avoid Windows

Avoid Windows due to invasive data collection, forced updates, and lack of user control. Microsoft’s AI features create major privacy risks, while opaque data practices and security vulnerabilities expose users to breaches and surveillance. Opt for privacy-focused, open-source operating systems that respect user autonomy and transparency.

Ethical and Sustainable Windows Alternatives

Ubuntu

A Linux distribution based on free software, emphasising privacy, security, and user control.

Ubuntu is fully open-source, allowing users to modify, distribute, and contribute to its development.
Ubuntu does not collect unnecessary user data or include telemetry by default, ensuring user privacy.
The operating system is free from advertisements, providing a clean and distraction-free experience.
Canonical is headquartered in the UK.
Ubuntu is optimised to run efficiently on a wide range of hardware, including older machines, reducing energy consumption and e-waste.
Ubuntu’s architecture is modular, allowing users to customise and replace system components as needed and work with a minimal set of features.
Ubuntu is completely free to download, use, and distribute. There are no licensing fees.
Ubuntu can be installed and run without having to create an account.
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Zorin OS

A Linux-based OS designed to provide a familiar experience for users transitioning from Windows.

Zorin OS minimises data collection and provides transparent privacy settings. It does not include proprietary telemetry or forced updates, giving users greater control over their digital environment.
The operating system is free from advertisements, providing a clean and distraction-free experience.
Zorin OS is optimized to run efficiently on a wide range of hardware, including older machines, reducing energy consumption and e-waste.
The base version of Zorin OS is free to download and use. There is a paid "Pro" version available for additional features and support.
Zorin OS is developed by Zorin Group, which is based in Ireland, making it a European project.
Zorin OS does not require registration to download or use the base version. You can freely download and install Zorin OS without creating an account or providing personal information.
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The 7 main issues with Windows

Big Tech - Big Tech companies do not nourish people and planet. This is especially true in times of political tension.

Microsoft is one of the largest tech companies, contributing to market monopolisation.Source: StatCounter: Operating System Market Share Worldwide

Privacy Concerns - User data is likely to be stored and used against users' best interest.

Windows has significant privacy concerns, including data mining, security breaches and lack of user control.Sources: The Register: Microsoft admits it 'cannot guarantee' data sovereignty (2025)ARS Technica: Microsoft comes under blistering criticism for “grossly irresponsible” security (2023)

Lack of Transparency - Opacity in operations, data handling, or supply chains, making it difficult for users to understand practices.

Microsoft lacks transparency in its data collection and usage practices, as highlighted by ongoing concerns over AI features and user data handling.Source: Ars Technica: Microsoft tries to head off the “novel security risks” of Windows 11 AI agents (2025)

E-Waste - Contribution to electronic waste through non-recyclable or short-lived products.

The latest version of Windows dropped support for millions of devices, causing a large amount of E-Waste as customers were forced to buy new hardware.404 Media: The End of Windows 10 Support Is an E-Waste Disaster in the Making (2025)

Tax Avoidance - Aggressive strategies are being deployed to avoid paying taxes.

Microsoft is known for using aggressive tax avoidance schemes and has been fined for it. Source: The Guardian: This article is more than 11 years old US tech giants launch fierce fightback against global tax avoidance crackdown (2015)

Support of Authoritarian Regimes - Companies actively supporting, financing and legitimising regimes and unethical policies.

Microsoft is financing Donald Trumps plans to create a new ballroom in the white house, hoping to benefit from upcoming laws. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella donated $1 Million to Trumps inauguration fund.Sources: OpenSecrets: Trump ballroom donors poised to benefit from AI plan they helped shape (2026)The Verge: Tech’s shift to Trump: all the companies and execs kissing the ring (2025)

No Carbon Neutrality Goals - No goals for carbon neutrality is a bad sign as it shows lack of commitment to holding crucial thresholds for global climate warming.

Microsoft has delayed its carbon neutrality targets and relies heavily on carbon offsets rather than direct emissions reductions, undermining its sustainability claims. Source: Computerworld: Can Microsoft build massive AI data centers and meet climate goals without “greenwashing”?CarbonCredits: Microsoft Buys 3.5 Million Carbon Credits to Offset AI’s Soaring Emissions