Green ICT

This picture (which I took myself) is breathtaking. Aesthetic pleasure alone should be enough to push us to preserve nature. Sadly, we have come to that point where becoming green is a matter of survival.


There is international growing concern about the environmental and health problems associated with (WEEE)or waste electronic and electrical equipment, or E-waste in short. The United Nation’s Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that millions of tonnes of electronic waste are generated each year, creating extreme health hazards from contamination.

The following are some of the things we can do to promote green ICT:

1. Green acquisition: Let's buy equipment with as little impact to the environment at the end of its life cycle as possible. There are systems that help us purchasers evaluate electronic goods as to their environmental attributes. EPEAT is one such system.


2. Green use: Let is maximize the lifespan of our IT equipment by, for instance, configuring them for optimum use, and using energy conservation methods and resorting to renewable energy sources.

3. Green disposal: Let us be responsible in our disposal of electronic equipment. The Government and schools can lead the way.*

The government having green consciousness is in accord with a principle and promise of our Constitution:

The state shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature. (Section 16, Article II)

Let us constantly remind ourselves of the twin concepts of "inter-generational responsibility" and "inter-generational justice" put forth by the petitioners in Oposa v. Factoran.

* Green ICT Guide. A Guide to the conscientious purchase, use and disposal of ICT. November 2010 Global e-Schools and Communities Initiative. gesci, founded by the UN ICT Task Force.http://www.ictliteracy.info/greenict.htm

Christopher John P. Lao

Entry # 9