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Green Computing

Green Computing

By: Peter Pressacco

 

Purchasing a new computer can be a challenge for most. Even for the experts, buying an environmentally-friendly computer can be difficult. The source of the problem is rooted in two core issues. First-computers consume a large amount of energy, particularly when you consider how much time they spend idling. Secondly-the components that make up computers are toxic.

This article is intended as a guide to help you be more environmentally friendly when computing, and to offer direction when upgrading a computer.

PART 1: Everyday Use

Power consumption is one of the easiest issues to address when it comes to green computing.  BC Hydro estimates that "about 170 gigawatt-hours of electricity are wasted each year in B.C. because workplace computers are left on at night and during inactive periods."  Eliminating this waste alone could prevent more than 750 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide from being created each year.

The solution is simple.  Consumers have to take action.

The best thing you can do is simply turn off your computer when it's not in use, and enable the operating system's power saving features*.  This straightforward action will reduce computer power consumption dramatically.

Also, it's worth noting that a typical screen saver will not save energy and can actually increase a computer's power requirements.

PART 2: Upgrading

Canada is currently in the process of building a new landscape, one that is comprised of the consumer electronics (e-waste) which Canadians throw out each and every year.  According to Environment Canada, computers generate approximately 4750 tonnes of lead waste annually.  This is just one of the more than 30 toxic elements and compounds which make up your computer.

By opting for an upgrade rather than a new computer, you too can help to reduce the amount of e-waste being generated.  The following points outline things you should consider before making an upgrade.

RoHS
On July 1st 2006, the European Union adopted a policy that calls for the reduction of hazardous materials (RoHS) contained within electronic equipment.  By purchasing RoHS certified components (power supplies, video cards, etc.), Canadians can help to reduce the amount of toxins (such as mercury and lead) which are being sent to our landfills.

80 Plus
Simply put, a power supply provides your computer the energy it requires to run.  Unfortunately, the average PC wastes a large percentage of the energy it consumes.  According to 80Plus.org, if your desktop computer were to use a high efficiency power supply you would save 85kWh annually.  This savings translates roughly to 128lbs of carbon dioxide.

For a list of computers with energy efficient power supplies, as well as a list of energy efficient power supply manufacturers, please visit: www.80plus.org

Energy Star
A new more aggressive Energy Star program, which places tighter restrictions on energy consumption, will take effect on July 20th, 2007.  Watch for these when you make your next visit to the local consumer electronics store.

For a list of computers that comply with the new regulations, please visit: www.EnergyStar.gov 

Donations
Rather than sending your old computer parts to the landfill, consider donating them to a program such as reBOOT Canada or Computers for Schools.  Taking this action enables you to give back to the community while being more environmentally friendly.

Alternatively, your electronics may be recycled by one of the following manufactures:

Chances are you are sitting at your computer right now. Why not take 5 minutes to ensure that your operating system's power saving features have been enabled?  Making a difference is that easy.

* Laptop users running Windows XP should be careful when enabling power saving features.  There is a known issue whereby a laptop in power saving mode may wake up and drain your battery.