1. Technology Improving the Environment By Michelle Newton

2. Introduction  Explore the positive effects of technology in regards to environmental sustainability  Technology reducing CO2 emissions  Smart Grid Technology  Obstacles preventing technology from improving the environment  People, Economics, Standards

3. Technology Reducing CO2 Emissions  According to a study done by the Global eSustainability Initiative in partner with the Climate Group, it is estimated that ICT could reduce CO2 emissions by 7.8 billion tons by year 2020.

4. Smart Grid Technology  Digital technology that enables two-way communication and sensing along transmission lines  Automated computer system can monitor energy production and demand  Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) allows consumers to use wattage readers to see first hand the electricity their individual appliances use  More efficient transmission of electricity  Increased integration of renewable energy systems

6. Obstacles Preventing Technology from Improving the Environment  People  Qualified individuals  Economics  Incentives for investments  Standards  Develop rules for integrating efficiency

7. Conclusion Several types of modern technology can help support environmental sustainability only when the obstacles to implement these technologies are overcome.

8. References  http://www.economist.com/node/11585208 http://www.economist.com/node/11585208  https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid/smart_grid https://www.smartgrid.gov/the_smart_grid/smart_grid  http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green- science/smart-grid2.htm http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green- science/smart-grid2.htm