"CIOs Are “Part of the Solution"

As consumers judge companies more and more on their level of greenness and environmentally friendly policies, organisations are facing challenges that can either kill the business or present vital opportunities.

So said Steve Rust, Managing Director, Panasonic Australia, who believes the role of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) is going to be increasingly important in the future given the environmental pressures facing companies.
Rust predicted that management will mandate a reduction of the organisation’s CO2 footprint, which will cascade down and affect all areas of the business. Some of the changes coming down the line may include the implementation of energy management systems that reduce energy consumption.
CIOs might also be required to find solutions that reduce employee travel. On the technology front, Rust pointed out that companies with a mobile workforce can take advantage of notebooks that are specifically designed for rugged and tough environments. There are notebooks that have the additional capability of resisting infection, especially suitable for healthcare organisations.

Many CIOs have put addressing environmental concerns on a back-burner, according to Rust.  “The pressures to address the environment have created a lot of business opportunities for those who are taking the initiative of creating products that consume less energy. The companies that actually innovate first will see the opportunities come their way, and CIOs should take this into account as they are part of the solution of reducing their organisation’s energy consumption,” he added.

The upcoming marcus evans Australian CIO Summit 2010 will take place at the RACV Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia 2-4 August 2010.