Information and Communication Technologies: Benefits and Challenges to the Environment
Ugwuishiwu B. O.1, Obi O. F.2, Ugwuishiwu, C. H.3
1Ugwuishiwu, B. O., Department of Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
2Obi, O. F. Department of Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
3Ugwuishiwu, C. H., Department of Computer Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
Manuscript received on January 01, 2013. | Revised Manuscript received on January 02, 2013. | Manuscript published on January 05, 2013. | PP: 96-100 | Volume-2, Issue-6, January 2013. | Retrieval Number: F1112112612/2013©BEIESP
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© The Authors. Published By: Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: The issue of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the environment is a complex and multifaceted one. ICT can play both positive and negative roles in sustainable environment. This study shows the important linkages between ICTs, ICT-enabled innovation and the environment. It analyses the environmental impacts of ICTs in different stages of the life cycle and also as an enabling technology for mitigation of environmental impacts across all economic sectors. Direct environmental impacts were noted to be considerable in areas such as energy use, materials throughput and end-of-life treatment. ICT usage could also generate new activities and wastes with grave implications on efficient environmental resource management. The contribution of ICTs to systemic changes to achieve more sustainable environment was discussed. It was concluded that it is important that the environmental impacts of ICT products and operations be minimized through improved research and development, implementation of innovative ICT systems and government ICT policies.
Keywords: Benefits, Challenges, Environment, ICT, Wastes