The development of Information and Communication Technologies as major pillars of the emerging knowledge societies has lead to a significant increase in demand for computer equipment worldwide. As a result, countries - including those in developing regions - are facing an increasing volume of computer equipment waste from both new computers and second-hand equipment.

While the increase in computer equipment significantly contributes to the reduction of the digital divide and supports economic growth, it will also have detrimental consequences for both the environment and public health and safety if it is not handled in the most professional way. Developing local capacities to manage end-of-life equipment in an environmental manner is therefore paramount. Not only should computer recycling be complementary to computer delivery but it should also help to provide business opportunities for small and medium enterprises, particularly in emerging markets. Capacity building is a major concern for UNESCO and ADEME, as it plays a strong part in the sustainable development of inclusive global knowledge societies. That is why UNESCO and ADEME have called upon experienced partners, such as HP, to join forces in the development of a blueprint guide which will provide local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and capability to collect refurbish and recycle computer equipment. The guide will provide a pragmatic answer to this ever increasing environmental challenge and will help to generate opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs at a local level.

This document is the first in a series of pedagogical materials produced by UNESCO and ADEME to train entrepreneurs in emerging markets in computer waste management, with a strong emphasis on the basic rules of environmental health and safety. The first volume provides an introduction to important background information and discusses issues to be considered when setting up a recycling business. The second volume, to be produced, will focus on recycling practices and will provide concrete, practical advice for entrepreneurs. It will also be accompanied by a website which will provide information on regional and national legal contexts, key players in computer recycling activities (particularly in Africa), and offer an open forum for sharing expertise in this field.

We hope that this guide will contribute to international cooperation in computer recycling, mobilizing stakeholders towards capacity building for sustainable development.

Abdul Waheed Khan
Assistant Director-General
Communication and Information Sector
UNESCO

Daniel Béguin
Soil and Waste Director
ADEME

11e Assises nationales de la Prévention et Gestion Territoriale des déchets

TIC ETHIC intervient le Vendredi 17 Septembre

11h à 12h30

Atelier 13 : "Le Réemploi et les TIC" (Technologies de l’Information et de la Communication)

Animé par Bernard VERDONCK, Administrateur CNR, Président Réseau des Ressourceries

Intervenants :

 Anne BRINGAULT, Directrice, Les Amis de la Terre : guide du réemploi, site internet « Produits pour la vie », résultat d’une étude sur l’obsolescence programmée

 Benoît VARIN, Gérant, TIC ETHIC : "Comment développer le Réemploi industriel au sein des Collectivités Territoriales et favoriser le marché de l’occasion grâce à des solutions technologiques innovantes?"

 Michael COPSIDAS, Directeur, EcoGeste

Au plaisir de vous rencontrer à cette occasion !

Inscription sur : http://www.paris-dechets.com/2010/co/vendredi-17-sept.html