1. Green ICT Green ICTs have become a principal need in the current age, in view of the deteriorating environmental conditions and climate change impact and the potential inherent in ICTs in mitigating the effects of climate change. The state is expected to mitigate the effects of climate change through the adoption of national policies that correspond to the global trends, while taking into consideration national needs and priorities. ICT tools can play a significant role in mitigating and adapting the effects of climate change. They contribute in offering solutions for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions caused by other sectors. Therefore, a group of policies should be adopted in this regard. They are as follows: Linking ICTs, the environment and energy policies to improve environmental performance Linking and coordinating ICT, environment and energy policies Promoting energy efficiency and sustainable management of resources through the use of ICTs Integrating ICT policies in the national adaptation plans with the aim of reducing emissions and facilitating climate change adaptation Developing and adopting methodologies to measure and mitigate the impact of ICTs on the environment Development of indicators to assess the potential of green and smart ICTs in reducing the negative impact of other sectors on the environment. a-Developing policies for the sustainable management of ICT equipment Sustainable management of ICT devices from cradleto-grave including; manufacturing, importation, distribution, use, reuse, recycling and disposal Adopting e-waste management policies and developing an integrated legislative framework in this regard Capacity building and training of local professionals in Green ICTs b-Promoting private sector’s investments in green ICT Promoting investments in green ICTs Compiling and distributing of information related to best practices in green ICT Preparing feasibility studies, guidelines and studies to support investment in green ICT Developing legislation to regulate and support investments in green ICT c-Strengthening national, regional and international cooperation in the field of sustainable development Taking part in international decision-making forums concerned with defining and supporting sustainable development goals (SDGs) Promoting the culture of clean technologies on the national level through the exchange of experiences and knowledge transfer Creating partnerships between developing and developed countries to address global environmental challenges Tapping into global and bilateral funds to enhance policies targeting sustainable development and encouraging the creation of funding mechanisms on the international level Integrate ICTs as a facilitator into the international dialogue on climate change in the framework of the international organizations in charge Participating in international efforts to formulate green technology standards and disseminating on the local level d-Reducing the negative environmental impact of the government sector through the use of green ICT Observing environmental standards in the public procurement of ICT equipment Using smart ICTs to increase the environmental efficiency of public utilities Fostering an environment friendly business cycle through the use of smart applications, such as teleconferencing and video conferencing e-Raising public awareness about the sustainable and rational use of ICTs f -Supporting research and development 4 5