Mitchell Bingemann | July 29, 2008
THE federal government isn't expecting the ICT organisations to apply for a large chunk of a newly announced "green grant" despite the industry's significant contribution to carbon dioxide emissions.
Innovation Minister Kim Carr today announced that applications have opened for the $75 million Climate Ready grant program which has been established to encourage businesses to develop climate-friendly products and services.Applicants can apply for dollar-for-dollar grants ranging from $50,000 to $5 million.
Research firm Gartner estimates that the global ICT industry accounts for approximately two per cent of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, a figure equivalent to aviation.
Despite the ICT industry’s large contribution to global CO2 emissions, Senator Carr said the government was not expecting any particular industry to dominate grant applications as Climate Ready is likely to attract businesses from a broad range of industry sectors.
“Climate Ready is a broad, non-technology specific program that is designed to support innovations that address the impact of climate change.
“All industry sectors need to play an active role in making a contribution to reducing the effects of climate change and the ICT industry is no exception.
“It is hoped that the ICT sector, along with all industry sectors, will come up with new and innovative project proposals that help address the impacts of climate change," Senator Carr said.
He offered an example for the ICT sector, suggesting the industry could contribute to the development of information systems for businesses or consumers that compare the carbon footprints of different activities.
“The Government is not being prescriptive about the focus of project proposals, as a broad based approach provides an opportunity for innovative research and development, proof-of-concept and early stage commercialisation activities.”
“If there are IT solutions that address the impact of climate change, they will certainly be considered,” Senator Carr said.