In design and technology, what does "available technology" mean?

Question

I'm thinking the most obvious answer is any technology that is currently present and in use, ie the opposite of emerging technology (though that can also be in use :S ) though I'm not sure whether it also applies to things like natural light, wind, etc

Answer 1

You are right--it means technology you can get your hands on to use now.

Natural light and wind are not "technology," they are natural elements, the opposite of technology--something devised by man to work outside of the natural world.

Answer 2

In response to whether it applies to natural light or wind, it wouldn't directly apply to those concepts, but rather indirectly. The technologies used to harness natural light, wind, etc are available, and currently in use. I'm not sure as to whether emerging technologies woudl count. I suppose they might, assuming they were available, and as you said, they could be emerging and yet be in use.