Sustainable IT
The industrial revolution has given us unprecedented growth in standards of living and has led in many ways to the digital revolution that has given us access to knowledge and anytime anywhere information. The business models that have led to unprecedented success during the industrial revolution have been used by the companies in the digital world as well. The industrial revolution started with extraction of commodities such as coal, steel, this then led to new production methods and companies profiting because of economies of scale in producing these things and consumer desire to own things.
1. The digital revolution’s core product is information and but uses many tools such as PC’s, Servers, Mobile phones, Ipods to give consumers access to this information. Companies sell us these tools so that we can have the multimedia information that is such an integral part of today’s modern culture.
2. Technological change, led in many ways by Moore’s law has led to a use and throw culture where the latest is always better and the older product necessarily discarded. The ICT and electronics industry thrives on obsolescence. Computers, cell phones, and other gadgets go out of date quickly, sometimes within months of release. Ewaste is big and getting bigger everyday. While many companies have signed up to the Basle convention and many are now partnering with the UN Step Initiative, most Recycling initiatives are more Greenwash than actual reality.
While technology can contribute in many ways in improving the world and in the quality of life, it can also worsen living conditions, contribute to global warming, increase pollution and encourage consumerism.
The responsibility of the ICT industry has increased manyfold as has the penetration of ICT in our daily lives. Most organizations in the information technology world have their commitment to “GreenTech”. Implying a move towards low energy, use of fewer hazardous materials and recycling. However much needs to be done. We are on a path that is increasing the use of technology, the Portable reader that most companies are working on is expected to end the reign of paper books. Similarly, other innovations in health and science will increase gadgetry. While this presents challenges, it also highlights unique opportunities to innovate, redesign and reuse technology that is zero waste – from the cradle to the grave.
http://www.bth.se/site/sustainability.nsf/pages/sustainability-resources
