strategy
Using sustainable technologies
Synonyms:
Spreading environmental technologyUsing environmentally sound technology
Context:
It is a frequent assumption that technology is neutral and that freedom, democracy, an environmentally benign society and other benefits will automatically follow from its development and use. There is little understanding that deliberate macro-policy choices, innovative instruments and a political commitment to the achievement of higher goals are required. Implementation:
The Ghanaian Government recently asked the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation's Industrial Development Department to help make its palm oil industry, whose traditional methods caused severe environmental damage, environmentally friendly. The Department looked to a technological solution which was inexpensive, easy to maintain and efficient. The Department installed and commissioned a new specially designed high-temperature boiler which burns cleanly, emitting minimal smoke, and is capable of using product waste as fuel. The Department ensured local staff would be able to use and maintain it at maximum efficiency. In 1993, this type of boiler was being promoted by Ghana's Environmental Protection Council to other palm mill owners in Ghana. The technology can also be used by other industries producing flammable waste. Thanks to the instalment of the new boiler, the Juaben palm Oil Mill in Ghana no longer needs to buy fuelwood, representing a significant cost saving, and the saving of 2,000 trees per year. Broader:
Using technologyApplying science sustainablyEstablishing zones for sustainable developmentEstablishing environmentally responsible enterprisesDeveloping resource efficient methods and technologies Narrower:
Implementing new energy technologyUsing environmentally sound disposal technologyFacilitating environmentally sound technologies for coastal zonesUsing suitable technology to improve environmental management by indigenous peoplesUsing environmentally sound land-use practices Constrained by:
Controlling environmental impact of technology Facilitated by:
Developing environmental technologiesEducating about alternative technologyDeveloping environmentally sound technologiesProviding information on environmental technologyIdentifying sustainable technology information gapsImproving access to environmentally sound technologyAddressing problems of cultivation of marginal agricultural landMonitoring technical developments in national environmental action plansEstablishing codes of practice and guidelines for environmental technologyExpanding functions of international agencies on environmentally sound technology transferProviding access to appropriate technology Values:
Unsustainable Subjects:
Technology → Technology Environment → Environment
Development → Sustainable development
Type Classification:
E: Emanations of other strategies Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
