Technologyenvironment

Technologyenvironment is an interdisciplinary field examining the reciprocal relationship between human-made technology systems and the natural environment. It considers how technology affects environmental health through resource extraction, energy use, pollution, and waste, and how environmental conditions shape technological development and deployment, including climate, water availability, and ecosystem services. The term encompasses both the environmental impacts of technology and the use of technology to monitor, protect, and rehabilitate ecosystems.

Key domains include lifecycle assessment and material footprints, energy efficiency and green design, the circular economy, electronic waste management, and sustainable information technology. It also covers environmental informatics, data-driven environmental decision making, and the integration of renewable energy with digital infrastructure. Governance aspects include policy frameworks, standards, and corporate sustainability reporting.

Applications range from smart grids, energy storage, and demand response; to sensing networks, GIS, remote sensing, and air and water quality monitoring; to climate adaptation and biodiversity conservation technologies. The field emphasizes system-level thinking, considering rebound effects, supply chain impacts, and social considerations such as environmental justice and equitable access to technology.

Research and practice aim to improve environmental outcomes while sustaining technological progress, guiding design choices, regulatory measures, and innovation pathways. It draws on engineering, ecology, economics, data science, and policy studies to support sustainable development.