ETSI-ITU Symposium on ICT Sustainability

ETSI, with ETSI TC EE (Environmental Engineering) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) are organizing the “ETSI-ITU Symposium on ICT Sustainability: Standards Driving Environmental Innovation“, which will take place on 11–12 December 2024, in ITU Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

The ETSI and ITU ICT Sustainability Symposium: Standards Driving Environmental Innovation will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers and stakeholders to explore the crucial role of standards in promoting sustainable ICT practices. Standards guide the development of technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency.

Through the circular design of ICT products, networks and services, standards ensure environmentally friendly technology. Lifecycle assessments consider all stages from creation to disposal, helping to assess, analyse and reduce the overall environmental footprint.

Environmental impact assessment reporting fosters accountability by evaluating and communicating the environmental effects of ICT products, networks and services. The digital product passport provides detailed environmental information, enabling informed consumer choices.

Adapting ICT products, networks and services to climate change ensures resilience, while standards for environmental conditions guarantee efficient and safe operation. Furthermore, ICT solutions enable the environmental impact in other sectors to be reduced.

These topics form the backbone of the symposium, driving the agenda for a greener digital future by highlighting the intersections between technology, standards and sustainability.

The objectives of the symposium include:

• Informing participants about the latest standardisation activities for sustainable ICT.
• Education on leveraging environmental sustainability standards to support policies and regulations related to ICT products, networks and services.
• Showcasing cutting-edge innovations, case examples and research projects of ICT initiatives for sustainability.
• Facilitating networking opportunities with experts, speakers, and stakeholders from various organizations.

Several demos and posters will be available during the event and will be visited during the networking breaks.

Participation in the Symposium is open to all. This includes ETSI members, ITU Member States, Sector Members, Associates and Academic Institutions, as well as to any individual from a country that is a member of ITU who wishes to contribute to the work. This includes individuals who are also members of international, regional and national organizations. Participation is free of charge.