Pervasive computing is a rapidly developing area of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The term refers to the increasing integration of ICT into people's lives and environments, made possible by the growing availability of microprocessors with inbuilt communications facilities. Pervasive computing has many potential applications, from health and home care to environmental monitoring and intelligent transport systems. This briefing provides an overview of pervasive computing and discusses the growing debate over privacy, safety and environmental implications.