Digital tech

This POSTnote outlines the scientific basis for deception detection technology and considers the implications of its use in different contexts.

After every general election, POST produces a special briefing highlighting some of the main science-based issues that the new Parliament is likely to encounter.

This POSTnote considers the extent of the global counterfeit medicine trade, its impact in the UK and the technologies and policy options available to combat it. It also examines the risks and benefits of online pharmacy, one of the main ways in which counterfeits are distributed.

This POSTnote looks at technology plans for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, focusing on information communications technology (ICT).

This POSTnote looks at recent UK e-democracy initiatives, and at challenges faced in their design and implementation. It examines debate over the purpose of eDemocracy and where its future lies.

This POSTnote outlines current and future applications of ITS in road transport, as well as technical, behavioural and economic limitations to their deployment.

The global greenhouse gas emissions from information and communication technology (ICT) are comparable with those of the aviation industry. This POSTnote focuses on the energy consumption of ICT equipment, and looks at action being taken to reduce it. It also mentions the wider environmental impact of ICT, and looks briefly at the significant contribution that ICT can make to reducing emissions in other sectors. These approaches are collectively referred to as 'green ICT'.

This POSTnote examines next generation access (NGA) technologies, demand for them and deployments worldwide. It looks at the debate over who should invest in NGA and when, and considers policy issues such as international competitiveness and geographical variations.

Smart metering of electricity and gas, February 2008. POSTnote 08/301.

Smart materials and systems, January 2008. POSTnote 08/299.

Next generation telecoms networks, December 2007. POSTnote 07/296.

Grids and e-Science, July 2007. POSTnote 07/286.