Communication is a fundamental human need and we are moving into a new era in which telecommunications will play an increasingly important role in our lives.

By fulfilling these needs for closeness, convenience and control, richer communication can also contribute significantly to a more sustainable society. Consider the following examples:

• Bringing people closer virtually rather than physically limits travel needs, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Introducing visual elements to telecommunications means the hearing- and speech-impaired can communicate much more easily, improving their lives substantially.
• More control also makes it possible to provide medical services and critical information more quickly and efficiently to those in need, regardless of physical distances.
• Advancements in communications can be seen as enabling technologies for sustainability to become a reality, providing undisputed social benefits and a toolkit for environmental protection.
• The use of ICT to improve efficiencies in creating more sustainable societies in all parts of the economy (for example, e-health, e-governance, and e-education).