The internet and other modern communication networks are vital to the global economy, but they are also significant consumers of electricity and carbon producers – from the construction to the ongoing consumption (data centre construction is now limited by the lack of available power to keep them running). At the same time, they offer a route to reduce carbon production from transport and buildings as people can work from home or reduce their business travel. - Description added by: David Lockie

Appliances, whether domestic, commercial or industrial, are consumers of electricity. A low carbon economy requires that these appliances be very energy efficient, both in use and when on standby. However, there are embedded carbon costs in appliances, from their manufacture and transport. These also needs to be considered when choosing an appliance. - Description added by: David Lockie