| Computers and the Environment: Understanding and Managing Their Impacts 2003 Edition Contributor(s): Kuehr, R. (Editor), Williams, Eric (Editor) |
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ISBN: 1402016794 ISBN-13: 9781402016790 Publisher: Springer OUR PRICE: $52.24 Product Type: Hardcover Published: October 2003 Annotation: Personal computers have made life convenient in many ways, but what about their impacts on the environment due to production, use and disposal? Manufacturing computers requires prodigious quantities of fossil fuels, toxic chemicals and water. Rapid improvements in performance mean we often buy a new machine every 1-3 years, which adds up to mountains of waste computers. How should societies respond to manage these environmental impacts? This volume addresses the environmental impacts and management of computers through a set of analyses on issues ranging from environmental assessment, technologies for recycling, consumer behaviour, strategies of computer manufacturing firms, and government policies. One conclusion is that extending the lifespan of computers (e.g. through reselling) is an environmentally and economically effective strategy that deserves more attention from governments, firms and the general public. |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - Computers | Computer Engineering - Technology & Engineering | Engineering (general) - Technology & Engineering | Environmental - Pollution Control |
| Dewey: 621.391 |
| LCCN: 2003062567 |
| Series: Eco-Efficiency in Industry and Science |
| Physical Information: 0.72" H x 6.36" W x 9.92" (1.39 lbs) 285 pages |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: Personal computers have made life convenient in many ways, but what about their impacts on the environment due to production, use and disposal? Manufacturing computers requires prodigious quantities of fossil fuels, toxic chemicals and water. Rapid improvements in performance mean we often buy a new machine every 1-3 years, which adds up to mountains of waste computers. How should societies respond to manage these environmental impacts? This volume addresses the environmental impacts and management of computers through a set of analyses on issues ranging from environmental assessment, technologies for recycling, consumer behaviour, strategies of computer manufacturing firms, and government policies. One conclusion is that extending the lifespan of computers (e.g. through reselling) is an environmentally and economically effective strategy that deserves more attention from governments, firms and the general public. |