Green ICT
Global warming is among the most important challenges facing our society. ICTs also make a significant contribution to this phenomenon, accounting for 2% of overall CO2 emissions (approximately the same amount as the aviation industry).
The ICT sector should therefore make efforts to reduce its emissions drastically. In addition, ICTs can (and do) also contribute significantly to the reduction of emissions in other industries.
In its capacity as a competence center, RTR has devoted a great deal of effort to this important topic, in particular pursuing the following objectives:
- Encouraging a better understanding of ICT (especially infrastructure), the environment and climate change;
- Defining focus areas at the European and international level;
- Initiating national activities and fostering best practices in the field of Green ICT.
In line with the duties of a regulatory authority for telecommunications, RTR focuses on the green contribution of telecommunications infrastructure. In light of society's increasing sensitivity to ecological topics, RTR's approach to telecommunications and regulation also accounts for the aspect of sustainability.
The large number of reports, studies and policy proposals available – especially at the international level – makes this subject area rather difficult to assess and comprehend. In recent years, the discussion has shifted from a general debate on environmental effects to more specific topics which are the subject of more or less intensive debates. The collection of documents provided here is intended to provide an initial introduction to this topic and does not necessarily cover the full range of subjects relevant to Green ICT.