We’ve shared data in the past demonstrating how businesses using mobile phone GPS technology are cutting down on fuel emission and becoming more ‘green.’

Although you may not realize it, mobile and other IT solutions can help both consumers and businesses make changes that will help fight climate change – and every little bit helps. This is a focus of Green:Net 09, a GigaOm Network conference taking place in San Franciso on March 24th.

In a recent post on the GigaOm earth2tech site, Katie Fehrenbacher, blogger and one of the designers of Green:Net, gave a quick look at some of the ways you can cut fuel consumption using IT solutions. Here’s her list of 7 IT options:

  1. Online eco-driving school – a web-based tool that tracks driving habits and encourages safer and more efficient ones using an in-vehicle monitoring system
  2. Cell phone fuel tracking – keep track of your miles driving and gas purchased through software on your phone – our note: this is also possible through TeleNav Shotgun
  3. Traffic-avoiding software tools – those of you using TeleNav GPS Navigator or TeleNav Shotgun already have this built into your phone
  4. GPS navigation – Katie mentions TeleNav GPS Navigator as one option
  5. In-car eco-driving games - some cars, like the 2010 Honda Insight hybrid, provide you with ongoing information on your fuel efficiency (or lack thereof)
  6. Fuel-focused social networks – Did you know there are sites out there where you can brag about your excellent MPGs?
  7. Web-based ride/car sharing – ridesharing isn’t a new concept but more and more sites are popping up to help people make these carpool connections

Any other IT tips you’d suggest to help individuals or companies become more green?