What is the problem ? ICT is an increasing contributor to the European energy bill

Today ICT equipment and services are estimated to be responsible for somewhere between 2,5 and 4% of the EU's carbon emissions (comparable to the aviation sector) and 8 to 10% of our electricity consumption. These figures are expected to double by 2020.

Why is EU Action required ? Reduce energy consumption of ICT sector

The growing ecological footprint of the ICT sector threatens to hinder investment in ICT with consequences for the industry and the contribution of ICT to the recovery and growth of the economy.

What will the Commission do ?

The Commission invited the ICT sector to develop a framework to measure its energy and environmental performance and adopt and implement common methodologies by 2011.

Key stakeholders (including standardisation organisations and industry) are joining up their efforts to deliver on the common methodologies for the sector to quantify the industry's own emissions/energy use.

First half of 2011

A commonly agreed methodology for the measurement of ICT goods and companies will be established.

Second half of 2011

Key ICT companies will pilot the established methodology and the Commission will investigate the methodology and assess the need for legislation.

Contact:

colette.maloney@ec.europa.eu