Abstract:This paper takes the recent process towards standardizing the mobile phone charger in the EU as a starting point to consider the role that compatibility standards might play in mitigating the negative impact of ICT on the environment. Building on insights gained from the economics of standards literature, the authors explore how the inherent effects of compatibility standards – such as reducing variety, avoiding lock-in, and building critical mass – can have positive implications for the environment. While the… Show more
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