Technology gives back!

There are so many prophets of doom preaching the dangers of technology that media is riddled with theories about the harm one could suffer from too much cell phone usage.  Very seldom do we see companies harnessing the technology in a useful way that benefits the environment.  One example was the disposable cell phone with a seed inside that you buried when you were finished using it, and the whole thing is supposed to be biodegradable and encourages tree planting.  Great idea.

Today, I’m pleased to tell you about another beneficial initiative that took place right here in liddle old SA.  The WWF (World Wildlife Fund) and BULKSMS.com have launched MyCO2Print, South Africa’s first Mobile Carbon Footprint calculator.

This tool allows South Africans to measure their carbon footprint in terms of travel and energy use, so that they can improve it on a monthly basis.  MyCO2Print gives an approximate Rand value based on figures from the Stern Report.

A spokesperson from WWF said in a press release on Media24 that they aim to focus the product toward the youth market by allowing teachers to use it as an innovative tool in the classroom.  It will be an excellent demonstration of the climate change and the environment because it gives local data.

The product was developed by Steven Weiss for WWF South Africa.

If you would like to try the MyCO2Pring calculator, SMS the word “CO2″ to 34017 (message charged at R2.00) from your cellphone, for instructions.

Overall, a great initiative! I’d love to be able to brag about more local companies showing how technology can be used to benefit our environment! (Hey Eskom – what about a wasted electricity calculator?)

Thanks to Glen at BULK SMS for sharing the press release with Cellfhelp.