The Ecology of the New Economy

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A "revolution" is occurring in global information and communications technologies. In just over a decade, the World Wide Web has evolved from a concept by an obscure English scientist to a consumer-driven technology system, projected to reach one billion users by 2005. Rapid advancements in these technologies have led to a surge in start-up companies and innovative partnerships. However, this swift growth has outpaced research and analysis on its impact on companies' ability to address global sustainability challenges. Traditionally, environmental strategy has focused on risk reduction and resource efficiency, risking the isolation of critical business issues like IT, R&D, and e-commerce from a broader sustainable perspective. This work aims to explore and raise awareness of sustainability concerns linked to the emerging global information economy, encompassing software, hardware, telecommunications, and advanced communication technologies. Key issues examined include the integration of sustainability into the business models of electronic and telecommunications firms, the relationship between information technology diffusion and resource intensity, and the role of these technologies in shaping sustainability policies. The implications for lifestyles and corporate interactions, as well as the global digital divide, are also addressed. This exploration will benefit academics, governments, businesses, and NGOs seeking to underst