2Sustain

The IT industry is performing very poorly with regard to sustainability, according to the latest analysis by oekom Research AG, one of the world’s leading rating agencies in the field of sustainable investment.

Despite relatively good grades by leaders like Ricoh (B+), Intel (B+) and Motorola Mobility (B), the average score for all companies analyzed was a dismal D+.

Why? To satisfy the constant demand for ever cheaper electronic consumer goods, the entire IT industry has engaged in a large-scale outsourcing process behind the scenes –and the fierce competition and price pressures are taking their toll. Now, many IT suppliers in China, South-East Asia and Mexico subject their workers to abysmal conditions, such as: (more…)

Once again, Apple’s supply chain is making headlines –for all the wrong reasons.

Last week, a coalition of 36 of China’s leading environmental groups released a new report claiming the company’s manufacturing processes are degrading the environment and poisoning workers.

The coalition, called the Green Choice Initiative, examined the environmental impact of 29 major IT firms that manufacture products in China. Apple finished tied for last place.

In a statement, the Green Choice Initiative said: (more…)

The $825 billion economic stimulus plan proposed by House Democrats earlier this month includes some $37 billion for spending specifically in the area of information technology.  In addition to creating jobs, this government investment is sure to foster more IT innovation and efficiencies –and not a moment too soon. Today, IT plays an increasingly complex role in virtually every business, and there’s no doubt that we’re all turning to IT more and more frequently for solutions regarding everything from security to sustainability.

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