So far, information technology is widening the gap between the world's haves and have nots. But, while the topic is controversial, there are many examples suggesting that telecommunications technology could actually prove to be an effective social and economic stimulant. Trends and new technology options for powering the Internet age are summarized. A new computer program has been developed by the Natural History Museum in London to map biodiversity. The program could benefit land use planners, foresters, farmers, and conservationists.
Nobody really knows the overall effect of e-commerce on the environment.
Impacts both positive and negative are examined. IMP Magazine , November 2000. While environmentalists and consumers have posited great environmental benefits to e-commerce, its net effects remain unclear. Further innovations could be implemented to make e-commerce's environmental advantages more pronounced. At the same time, more research is needed on the impacts of the ICT sector on national energy use.