How will ICTs affect our environment in 2020?

Authors: Casal, Carlos Rodríguez; Wunnik, Christine Van; Sancho, Luis Delgado; Burgelman, Jean Claude; Desruelle, Paul

Source: Foresight - The journal of future studies, strategic thinking and policy, Volume 7, Number 1, 2005 , pp. 77-87(11)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

Purpose - <IT>This paper aims to present the results of a research project that the Institute for Prospective Technology Studies commissioned to research the possible effects of information and communication technologies (ICT) on a set of environmental indicators in 2020.</IT> Design/methodology/approach - <IT>The project adopted an innovative methodology combining qualitative scenario-building and quantitative modelling.</IT> Findings - <IT>The general conclusion was that the impact of ICT is roughly between -20 and +30 percent. Therefore there are significant opportunities for improving environmental sustainability through ICTs, which can rationalise energy management in housing (or facilities), make passenger and freight transport more efficient, and enable a product-to-service shift across the economy.</IT> Originality/value - <IT>The impact of ICT should accordingly be taken into account by environmental policies in order to ensure that ICT applications make a positive contribution to environmental outcomes, and, at the same time, to suppress rebound effects.</IT>

Keywords: Communication; Environmental management; European Union; Information; Sustainable development; Technology-led strategy

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14636680510581330

Publication date: 2005-02-01