Information and Communication Technology Impacts on Environmental Sustainability
Summary
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged as both a driver of environmental innovation and a notable source of resource consumption. On one hand, digitalisation enables more efficient energy management through smart‐grid technologies, predictive analytics and Internet of Things applications, allowing utilities and industries to optimise load distribution and reduce waste. Teleworking, virtual meetings and e-commerce platforms can lower transport-related emissions, while data‐driven monitoring supports precision agriculture and circular-economy practices. On the other hand, the rapid expansion of data centres, network infrastructure and consumer electronics has increased electricity demand and electronic waste generation. This duality gives rise to rebound effects, where efficiency gains are offset by higher overall consumption. Research has begun to quantify these trade-offs, exploring strategies for decarbonising ICT supply chains, improving server efficiency and integrating renewable energy into digital operations. The global significance of this work lies in balancing socioeconomic benefits of connectivity with the imperative to limit greenhouse-gas emissions, conserve natural resources and foster sustainable development across multiple sectors.
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Information and Communication Technology Impacts on Environmental Sustainability publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in information and communication technology impacts on environmental sustainability across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Digitalisation: The integration of digital technologies into economic and social processes to enhance efficiency and information flow.
Carbon emissions: The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, primarily from fossil fuel combustion and industrial activities.
Energy intensity: The amount of energy consumed per unit of economic output, serving as an indicator of energy efficiency.
Decarbonisation: The process of reducing carbon intensity in energy systems and economic activities to mitigate climate change.
References
- ICT sector, digitization and environmental sustainability: A systematic review of the literature from 2000 to 2022. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (2023).
- The impact of digitalization on energy intensity in manufacturing sectors – A panel data analysis for Europe. Journal of Cleaner Production (2023).
- Digitalization, innovation and environmental policies aimed at achieving sustainable production. Sustainable Production and Consumption (2022).
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