Potential in Information and Communication Technologies for Supporting Sustainable Consumption

Abstract

Sustainable consumption is becoming a central issue in environmental protection. Discussions are being held and new ideas generated on the main areas of consumption (mobility, food, consumer goods, buildings) and how these can be made more sustainable., The European Union is about to launch an Action Plan to further these goals. This paper gives a comprehensive overview on how ICT, more specifically information systems can support sustainable consumption for environmentally conscious consumers or for those wanting to economise in the medium and long term. The paper is structured according to the main areas of consumption. It covers both existing systems relevant from this point of view and new ideas and general considerations about the potential contribution of information systems to sustainable consumption.