6 December 2010: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Global e-Sustainability Initiative (GeSI) have published a report titled “Using ICTs to Tackle Climate Change,” which illustrates the importance of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and in helping countries to adapt to climate change.

The report shows how ICTs can help with climate change mitigation and adaptation by: driving down emissions in the ICT sector, including through the use of more efficient equipment and networks; cutting emissions and raising energy efficiency in other sectors, such as by maximizing the efficiency of power systems in “smart” grids that distribute electricity; and using ICT-based systems to monitor weather and the environment worldwide, as well as to swiftly transmit data, analysis and alerts. The report also highlights that ICTs, especially through broadband Internet access, are playing an increasing role in delivering services that help to create and support a sustainable future.

Hamadoun I. Touré, ITU Secretary-General, underlined the role ICTs can play in: reducing emissions in every other sector and advancing climate science. He added that “they offer one of the most significant opportunities to reduce GHG emissions, especially in those industries that are among the highest producers of carbon dioxide, such as energy generation, waste disposal, construction and transport.” The report also calls for the inclusion of ICTs in national mitigation plans. [ITU Press Release] [The Report]