A very modern contradiction

On a recent press trip I encountered a dilemma that is very representative of our times and increasingly common, although contrary to current political sensitivities. The problem arises from the fact that we live in an era when ‘time is new money’ and we are expected to achieve twice as much in half of the time – and this often comes at a greater, not lesser, cost to the environment.
Here are two examples. Invited by one of the leading manufacturers in our industry to a major trade event, the majority of my colleagues opted to fly to the destination at the far end of our island, while a small minority concerned with their carbon footprint took the train. Instead of being rewarded for their environmental consciousness, they were punished by our rail system – and due to severe delays they had to change their plans and returned to the original destinations.
The second example: the dishwasher using the latest technology allows busy people to wash their dishes in half of the usual time which may appear as energy saving solution. Well, nothing can be further from the truth.  The super fast wash requires the appliance to work twice as hard – to get this burnt-on lasagne off the pan – and actually uses more energy than the long wash (!).
I am sure that you will recognise this problem in your area of work. Well, recognising it is one thing, solving it is another matter all together. I wonder how many changes will be required to our lifestyles and work patterns before we will stop harming the things we are trying to save. 
Anna Ryland, Editor
aryland@datateam.co.uk