Technology is set to become even more environmentally friendly
this year as companies pursue a green agenda, according to research
from business advisory firm Deloitte.
In 2010, technology's contribution to CO2 reduction could result
in electric cars, more efficient aeroplanes and greener data
centres.
One largely overlooked industrial product likely to undergo an
environmental makeover is cement. Cement production represents
approximately five per cent of global emissions, almost double that
of the aviation sector.
According to Deloitte's predictions for the TMT sector in 2010,
this year should see the world's first laboratory scale
carbon-negative cement plant, with an industrial scale plant
expected in 2011.
Chris Robertson, partner in Deloitte's technology, media and
telecommunications (TMT) practice in Birmingham, said: "Cement is
an essential driver of economic growth and the introduction of
carbon-negative cement production is a step in the right
direction.
"The total resulting reduction in global CO2 emissions and
construction costs could be significant but the full benefits of
carbon-negative cement won't be realised for another five to ten
years, when the first carbon-negative pavements and driveways are
likely to appear.
"It will be some time before we see carbon negative skyscrapers
though."
The telecommunications sector will also focus on reducing CO2
emissions this year with manufacturers introducing features such as
chargers that turn off and a single charger standard.
"In 2010, the global telecommunications sector will focus
heavily on reducing CO2 emissions, with cost control being the
common driver in developed and developing countries," said Mr
Robertson.
"More reliable network technology could translate into a
reduction in the emissions produced by maintenance teams and
equipment manufacturers will continue to improve network
efficiency."
However, the outlook is less rosy for solar power technology,
which Deloitte predicts could struggle in 2010 due to the cost of
solar equipment, tools and raw materials, as well as overcapacity
and weak economics.