Right now, in Cancún, discussions are taking place on how the world might step up its efforts to tackle climate change. In these negotiations, the sixteenth Conference of Parties (Cop-16) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will have access to data about the impact of such important factors as deforestation. But something is, as yet, missing from the agenda, and it could have a truly significant effect on reducing our use of energy and thus greenhouse-gas emissions. It is, of course, information and communication technology, or ICT.
Although these technologies themselves generate emissions in their manufacture, use and disposal, this effect is very small compared with their power to cut emissions elsewhere. This is particularly true in the sectors that are the biggest "gas guzzlers," such as transport and electricity generation. ICT in the form of videoconferencing eliminates the need for travel, while so-called intelligent transport (based upon vehicles, roads and traffic control centres equipped with ICT) can not only improve safety, but also cut the use of fuel. And when it comes to electricity supplies, by avoiding wastage and making distribution more efficient, "smart grids" could reduce demand substantially.
According to a report issued by the International Electricity Partnership during the climate talks in Copenhagen, deployment of state-of-the-art technologies can lead to cuts in carbon emissions of 60-80% in developed economies by 2050.
This is not to forget the literally vital role played by ICT in dealing with the effects of climate change. ICT in general, and radio-based remote sensors, in particular, are already the main tools used globally for environmental observation and climate monitoring. Modern disaster prediction, detection and early warning systems based on ICT are essential for saving lives.
For these reasons, the International Telecommunication Union, as the United Nations agency with lead responsibility for ICT, has urged the delegates at Cop-16 to include specific mention of ICT in the negotiating texts that they are considering.
Along with the adoption of an agreed methodology for measuring how ICT produces and reduces emissions, and its inclusion in national plans for adapting to and mitigating climate change, this would provide a major incentive for investment in technologies such as broadband that can really help. An especially important result could be increased investment in improving ICT in developing countries, as part of carbon trading. This would help to narrow the digital divide while at the same time fighting climate change – a win-win scenario.
The world is waiting and hoping for results from Cancún. To achieve the best possible outcome, the uniquely powerful tools of ICT must not be ignored. They are an essential part of the solution for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions worldwide.
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