Green IT, Sustainable Information Technology

Green IT is a term that involves the use of information technology in such a manner that prevents damage to the environment. The main goal of most green initiatives including Green IT is to promote environmental sustainability. Environment sustainability is required with the increased demand for fossil fuel and increasing harmful effects on the environment. As pollution and the rising cost of energy sources become worldwide issues, people are being urged to be more aware of how they consume energy. World leaders are pushing for cheaper energy-saving technologies. They also are calling for technology in the form of energy sources that will outlast the fossil fuels upon which most people are dependent. In addition to being cost-efficient, this technology called Green IT must be environmental friendly. That is, these new energy sources must not add to pollution. Some of the Green IT technologies that retain sustainable development are: waste recycling, sewage treatment, water purification, solid waste management and renewable energy.

The ecological effects and problem areas of the information infrastructure, especially end appliances have been the object of scientific examination and the main focus for many manufacturers of information technology equipment. The main responsibility here lie in the development of energy-saving appliances, the avoidance of toxic substances to enter into the atmosphere, the reduction of waste through better recycling and the optimization of the life and use of appliances. Manufacturers and suppliers of internet information and communication technology have the task of incorporating environmental considerations in the development and management of information technology.