This post originated at IT Services Info & News | Ascensha. Ascensha is a Portland, OR IT company that manages and develops network infrastructure for Oregon small businesses.

An interesting interview caught my attention today concerning the realities of print and online media. Many companies are “going green” with e-commerce, offering products and services every where from eBooks to eBills. But is converting to digital really greener than sticking with paper? The answer might not be as clear-cut as you think.

News media innovation blogger Robert Ivan interviewed Don Carli, a leading expert on the sustainability of media supply chains. During the conversation, Carli had some very enlightening comments regarding the “greenness” of digital and print media. For instance:

“There is no question that print media could do a better job of managing the sustainability of its supply chains and waste streams, but it’s a misguided notion to assume that digital media is categorically greener. Computers, eReaders, and cell phones don’t grow on trees and their spiraling requirement for energy is unsustainable.”

Carli makes the point that while many people think shifting communication to the digital realm means going green and saving trees, it may actually do more to adversely affect our environment. For example, an eReader needs a computer in order to read. Consequently, that computer requires valuable resources to manufacture and constant energy to function. Furthermore, when it’s time for an upgrade, the old computer is unlikely to be efficiently disposed.

Yet, at the same time, similar arguments can be made for the life-cycle of print and paper — making it difficult to establish a clear greener medium of communication. However, as new technologies like virtualization continue to develop and improve, it appears as if digital media will eventually win out by a clear margin.

For the time being, the decision to choose one or the other could significantly impact the bottom lines of small and large businesses alike. Be sure to consult with your IT solutions provider to discover which will work best for you.

[photo: jurvetson]

Additional Resources:

Green IT: Cloud Computing Solutions for Small Business

What Does Green IT Mean Today?

Green IT and the Bottom Line

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