ICTs, the Internet and Sustainability: A discussion paper

The document explores how the rapid evolution of the Internet and ICTs over the last 20 years necessitates a re-evaluation of the concept of sustainability. It specifically addresses the transformations in economy, society, politics, and culture resulting from these technologies and their intersection with global sustainability challenges. Additionally, the text mentions an evaluation of solar-powered electric cookers in rural Kenya and a broader exploration of transitioning to renewable energy systems while protecting ecosystems and local livelihoods.

• The rapid evolution of the Internet and ICTs has transformed life across all levels, from global to local, in nearly every country since the first Rio conference.
• The document identifies a need to assess how the information and communications revolution should change the current understanding of sustainability.
• The study assesses the impact of solar irrigation-powered electric cookers on social inclusion and gender equality within rural Kenyan households.
• The report investigates methods for transitioning to renewable energy systems that do not harm local livelihoods, ecosystem functions, or land health.

APA

Souter,, D. (2012). ICTs, the Internet and Sustainability: A discussion paper. International Institute for Sustainable Development. https://www.iisd.org/articles/policy-analysis/icts-internet-and-sustainability-discussion-paper

Chicago

Souter,, David. ICTs, the Internet and Sustainability: A discussion paper. International Institute for Sustainable Development, 2012. https://www.iisd.org/articles/policy-analysis/icts-internet-and-sustainability-discussion-paper.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |last1=Souter, |first1=David |title=ICTs, the Internet and Sustainability: A discussion paper |publisher=International Institute for Sustainable Development |date=28 May 2012 |url=https://www.iisd.org/articles/policy-analysis/icts-internet-and-sustainability-discussion-paper |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{souter2012icts, author = {Souter,, David}, title = {{ICTs, the Internet and Sustainability: A discussion paper}}, institution = {International Institute for Sustainable Development}, year = {2012}, month = may, url = {https://www.iisd.org/articles/policy-analysis/icts-internet-and-sustainability-discussion-paper}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }