In this era of "going green", a number of organizations are taking an environmentally friendly approach to the way they do business. This is more than just a trend, however, as companies strive to reduce power consumption and become more efficient in their operations. The same is true for the network operator that can leverage eco-efficiencies within its own environment to optimize performance.

Throughout the telecommunications industry, there is also a demand for new and innovative services and anytime access. Consumers have become restless and a mere telephone no longer satisfies their needs or wants. Today, the consumer must have access to broadband and accessibility on any device and wherever they are with seamless performance and reliable communications.

There is a direct tie-in to the eco-efficient lifestyle as it changes the way the consumer lives and works. In fact, instant access to information and more personal and context aware communications can all reduce the environmental impact the consumer has on his or her surroundings. With Alcatel-Lucent (News - Alert) IMS end-to-end Solutions, eco-efficiencies are increased to reduce the environmental impact and change the way people live and work.

Alcatel-Lucent relies on innovation within its eco-sustainability program to build eco-sustainable end-to-end networks. The IMS solution consumes less electricity and occupies less space than TDM-based solutions. The company's scientists and engineers continue to focus on innovative solutions and services such as smart metering, smart buildings, smart transport and teleworking in order to drive an eco-efficient environment.

Beyond the money saving and environmental protection possibilities in these solutions, they also help to generate new revenue and market opportunities. Network operators can rely on these new solutions to offer multimedia communication services such as voice, video, Web, messaging and other conversational services with the use of the most appropriate communications tools.

Service providers and enterprises can enjoy new market opportunities, while they also leverage their eco-efficient solutions for near term OPEX (News - Alert) savings. As a carrier grade, field-proven, flexible, integrated solution, the IMS offering from Alcatel-Lucent allows carriers to introduce IP Multimedia Communications in a way that works for them to drive sustainable efficiencies and revenues.

At the same time, this solution also helps to create a more eco-efficient lifestyle. IMS offers users a new way to work and communicate. While these methods were recently unimaginable; they now reduce the impact on the environment and allow for the optimization of new communication technologies to drive collaboration and effective operations. Overall, the solution creates a better environment for the network operator and the end user.