The linkages between RT (information and communications technology) and the environment have strong relevance for the Asia-Pacific region. To have an impact in the region, the GeSI (Global e-Sustainability Initiative) of the industry, UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme), and the International Telecommunications Union needs to be strengthened through a regional initiative. The ICTEAP (Information and Communications Technology and the Environment in Asia and the Pacific) initiative is an attempt to highlight complementary regional perspectives and priorities. It would be tailored to address practical realities of ICT applications as enabling mechanisms for improved environmental sustainability, particularly in developing countries. The initiative was formally launched through a regional workshop organized jointly by the MoEF (Ministry of Environment and Forests), Government of India; UNEP; TERI; and the CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) in New Delhi, India, on 2-3 May 2002.