clean technology
compound.compound. machines, systems, or ways of working that do not harm the environment. You use this to talk about things like solar power or electric cars that help stop pollution.
compound. processes, products, or services that reduce negative environmental impacts through significant energy efficiency improvements, the sustainable use of resources, or environmental protection activities.
The government is investing more money in clean technology.
By switching to clean technology, the factory was able to reduce its carbon emissions while lowering its monthly energy costs.
The rapid advancement of clean technology has transformed the energy sector, making renewable sources like wind and solar increasingly competitive with traditional fossil fuels in the global market.
A compound formed from the adjective clean and the noun technology. The term gained prominence in the late 20th century as a more precise industrial alternative to the broader 1960s concept of appropriate technology.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Often used as a collective term for the industry; can be shortened to 'cleantech' in business contexts.
Last updated July 22, 2026