Welcome to the greenZONE!
by Dave Bell & Lee Goldberg
The electronics industry is now at a crossroads and the direction we take will determine our future, and perhaps that of the world. As one of the world's largest and fastest growing manufacturing sectors, we find ourselves involved with many industries that are threatening the Earth's fragile ecosystem. The funny part is that at the same time, we are rapidly developing the very tools to preserve, and even leave a cleaner, more sustainable planet to our grandkids.
One clear example of this is that as we find ourselves facing a rapidly-mounting e-waste crisis. There's growing evidence of the danger the industry poses to worker health and safety and to the environment through the sheer number and volume of hazardous materials it employs. At the same time, we're seeing exciting developments in alternative energy and other promising technologies, as well as encouraging signs of enlightenment in industry, government, and among consumers. Manufacturers recently agreed to work toward establishing a nationwide system for front-end financing of e-waste collection and processing, states and industry groups are unveiling new initiatives and public awareness campaigns, and consumers are beginning to flock to e-cycling and take-back events.
This trend towards sustainable industry has gained even more momentum in the European Community, where stringent take-back laws are being phased in over the next 5 years. While there will be some big growing pains, it's expected that most companies will eventually thrive in a market where manufacturers are responsible for disposal or recycling of their products at the end of life. Companies who take leadership positions in this important movement are almost certain to be among the winners in this new century. Those that do not adopt sustainable business and manufacturing practices are almost sure to be the buggy-whip makers of tomorrow.
Other opportunities exist in energy conservation, energy storage, and renewable energy generation technologies. We're already seeing the venture capital that built the networking industry begin to flow towards the green energy sector. Once again, the early settlers in this promising marketplace will enjoy both good profits and a chance to make a healthier, greener world.
Here in the greenZONE, we aim to be part of the solution by providing the news and resources you need to help shape the future of technology. Turn to us first for the latest news on technology, alternative fuels, and the environmental impact of electronics. See our calendar for the most comprehensive and reliable listing of conferences, exhibits, and other important events in the greenZONE. Browse our links to quickly find what you need to know in the world of green technology.
For an overview of the e-waste crisis, see Californians Against Waste. For worker health and safety news, a report on how America exports its e-waste, and where your computer manufacturer ranks on the Computer Report Card, visit the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition. Interested in alternative energy? Look up the American Solar Energy Society, American Wind Energy Association, EnergyIdeas.org, or Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network.
For electronics recycling resources in your state and around the world, check out the Electronic Industry Alliance, International Association of Electronics Recyclers, or ElectronicsRecycling.net. Click here for proceedings of the Electronic Products Recovery and Recycling Conference, with presentations on: International Legislation & Regulations, E-Scrap Exportation, Repair & Reuse Markets, U.S. Legislation & Regulations, Future of Obsolescence, Product Stewardship, Design for Environment, and Collection Initiatives.
Want to get involved? Check out the International Network of Engineers and Scientists for Global Responsibility, IEEE's Engineering for a Sustainable Future professional network, or Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility.
We'd also like your help making greenZONE a more useful and interesting place for you. Please, let us know when you see things here that you love or loathe, and don't be shy to tell us what you'd like to see on these pages. If you're involved with any aspect of green technology, we'd love to hear from you, and maybe even help you publish a story about what you, or your colleagues are up to.
We're here, we're listening, and we're hungry for your comments, questions, suggestions, news, and ideas.
Yours for a better world,
The Green Guys
Lee Goldberg - lgoldberg@green-electronics.com.
Dave Bell - bells@friend.ly.net