September 2012: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has released a report titled “Guidance on Green ICT Procurement,” which outlines ways to address the environmental impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in a standardized way, using “ITU-T” (Standardization Bureau of the ITU) Methodologies to assess the environmental impact of ICTs in goods, networks and services, and organizations.

The report provides direction to ICT companies to promote and establish effective and efficient procurement practices and to make “green” solutions available to their customers, embedding greater awareness of environmental issues in their business transactions. The report also highlights some standard considerations for ICT companies, and provides systematic guidance to address an environmentally sustainable step-by-step procurement process, detailing green considerations to be used when procuring products and services. The report aims to lead to the implementation of effective and environmentally-friendly procurement practices, which take into account ICT goods, networks or services Life Cycle Considerations (LCC).

The guidance publication was launched at the second ITU Green Standards Week, held in Paris, France , from 17-21 September 2012. [Publication: Guidance on Green ICT Procurement] [IISD RS Story on ITU Green Standards Week]