Telecommunications and energy policy

As the energy problems of the West continue, an increasing amount of attention is focused on methods of energy conservation. The authors develop an ‘activist’ view of the role of telecommunications as a component of energy-conservation policy. Advanced telecommunications offer an alternative to many forms of travel. The results of research aimed at quantifying and comparing the direct energy consumption of travel and telecommunications are presented. Telecommunications developments can induce changes in business organisation, transport, urban development, and environmental quality, as well as increased freedom of location. The authors consider whether such changes are feasible and desirable.