The California Green Technology Initiative was launched on Monday in West Sacramento. The program aims to help people without access to technology while also cutting down on electronic waste. It will collect used devices, repair them, and give them to families in need.
The program is led by the California Emerging Technology Fund. It is supported by local and state groups. These groups will work together to deliver tech support and internet access to low-income communities. Devices like laptops and tablets will be collected, cleaned, and reused instead of being thrown away.
Many families in California still do not have a reliable internet connection or devices at home. This creates problems for students, workers, and older people. They may miss out on school, job opportunities, or health services. The new program wants to make sure every person in the state can connect to the internet and use digital tools.
The goal of the initiative is to connect 99% of Californians to the internet in the next five years. Today, about 91% of households are online in the state. For low-income households, that number is only 84%. This gap is often called the digital divide. It is caused by poverty, language barriers, and lack of access to tools or skills.
To close the gap, the program offers more than just free or low-cost devices. It also includes training on how to use computers, the internet, and digital services. People will learn how to search online, attend virtual meetings, or apply for jobs. They will also learn how to stay safe while using the internet.
In Sacramento, the group Computers 4 Kids is helping run the program. They collect used computers, fix them, and give them to people who need them. They also teach digital skills to help people use the devices. The aim is to help people of all ages feel comfortable and confident using technology.
The program also helps protect the environment. Many devices are thrown into landfills each year. These items contain parts that can harm the planet. By repairing and reusing them, the state can reduce waste and lower the need for new products.
This green tech effort is part of a wider plan to give every Californian the tools they need to succeed in a digital world. It supports learning, jobs, and healthcare by making digital access easier and cheaper. It also helps communities grow by giving them more chances to connect and learn.
The state is working with schools, local groups, and non-profits to reach more people. The goal is not just to offer devices but also to help people understand how to use them. Digital literacy classes will teach skills for school, work, and daily life.