|
UNESCO supports initiatives to refurbish PCs to narrow digital divide
In a bid to contribute to universal access to information, experts discussed at UNESCOs Paris Headquarters last week how developing countries could benefit from the European Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment.
The over 40 participants from the European Commission, the Global e-Schools and Communities Initiative (GeSCI), the French Agence gouvernementale de l'Environnement et de la Maîtrise de l'Énergie (ADEME), NGOs and the private sector discussed how the the European regulatory framework and its application through national legislation could benefit computer recycling programmes for developing countries and reviewed logistical and economic models for recycling and refurbishing PCs.
They said that stakeholders involved into PC distribution in developing countries must join forces to leverage each others impact and to fully benefit from the European Directive in order to better respond to increasing needs for IT equipment in the South.
The European Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment of 27 January 2003 (2003/108/ec) stresses that priority shall be given to PC reemployment. The proper refurbishment of a small part of used PCs in Europe could significantly contribute to satisfy needs of schools, community centres and associations indeveloping countries. In 2003, 53 millions PCs were sold on the European market and it is estimated that 500 millions of them would not be used anymore in 2007.
The brainstorming meeting on 24 October 2005 was organised by EcoMicro, a France-based initiative dealing with PC recycling and refurbishing for social inclusion and support to developing countries, in cooperation with UNESCO.
Source:UNESCO
|
|
|
Making calls over net technology is changing the face of phones. New technology to make voice calls over broadband has hit UK High Streets with the launch of Freetalk in Dixons, Currys, The Link and PC World.
|
| Read more |
|
|
|
Networked Intelligence for Development
Networked Intelligence for Development is a Toronto based network of independent consultants and trainers specializing in new media, information and communication technologies (ICTs), the creative industries and international development. Our consultants have held senior positions in multilateral organizations, governmental and intergovernmental organizations, broadcasting and media institutions, research institutes and non-governmental organizations.
|
|
|
|
Digital Divide Network
The Digital Divide Network, a project of the Benton Foundation, examines the digital divide from many perspectives. The Web site offers a range of information, tools and resources that help practitioners stay on top of digital divide developments.
|
|
|
|
|
