Technology has played a key role in the development of human society. Modern technologies such as information technology have changed the human lifestyle. Development of sophisticated instruments like computers, satellites, telecommunication instruments etc. have resulted in total revolution in almost all spheres of life. The important role of information technology in environment and human health are as follows:

1. Remote Sensing:

Remote sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) has proved to be very effective tool in environment management. Now, the ongoing changes in the environment can be assessed easily through satellites by remote sensing techniques. The occurrence of a number of natural calamities like droughts, floods, volcanic eruptions etc., can also be predicted well in advance. Such assessments help the environmentalists and planners to take ameliorative measure to minimize the effects of these extreme natural events. The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India has created an information system called Environmental Information System (ENVIS) with its headquarters in Delhi. It provides a network database in environmental issues like pollution control, renewable energy, desertification, biodiversity, etc.

2. Database:

Database is the collection of inter-related data on various subjects in computerized form which can be retrieved whenever required. Now the data regarding birth and death rates, immunization and sanitation programmes can be maintained more accurately than before in computers at health centres. Database is also available about the diseases like malaria, fluorosis, AIDS etc. The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India has taken up the task of compiling a database on various environmental issues like wildlife, forests cover, wasteland, etc.

3. Human Health:

Information technology also plays a key role in human health. It helps the doctors to monitor the health of people of that area. The information regarding outbreak of epidemic diseases from remote areas can be sent more quickly to the district administration to take corrective measures. Now, patients can seek help of a super specialist doctor placed at far off distance. Many hospitals now, take on-line help of experts to provide better treatment and services to their patients. This has become possible only because of advancement of IT in the recent times.

4. Online Information:

It provides vast quantum of information on different subjects including human health and environment.