Purchasing
Green computing starts when you’re ready to buy your computer. Use the following guidelines when you’re making your buying decisions.

Buy Only What You Need

If you have the option, you can best serve the environment (and your budget) by extending the life of your existing equipment and passing up new items that you don't really need.

Consider:
  • Desktop computers and laptops can often get a performance boost with relatively inexpensive memory and hard drive upgrades.
  • Sharing a workgroup printer with your colleagues saves the expense of an additional purchase and reduces power consumption.
  • Even if you need a new computer, you may not need a new monitor, or vice versa. Buying separately can save money and reduce waste.
  • Generally speaking, the more powerful the computer, the larger the monitor, or the faster the printer, the greater the energy consumption. Less powerful equipment may suit you and the environment just fine.

When You Must Buy, Consider the Environment

Use your knowledge of computer energy consumption to find a system designed with the environment in mind. Below are some pointers for the key purchase options that confront you. Also, be sure to verify that the equipment you buy is Energy Star compliant.

Desktop vs. Laptop

Laptops are far more energy efficient (50 to 80 percent in most cases) than comparable desktops. If a laptop is appropriate for your business or academic needs, it is also better for the environment. Remember, though, that laptops are more prone to theft and damage. The environmental benefits of energy reduction may be outweighed by the shorter useful life of your laptop. Be sure to keep your laptop safe and secure if you decide that one is right for you. Remember also that a laptop can generally serve all of your computing needs, especially with optional docking stations. They need not be thought of just as travel accessories.

LCD Monitor vs. CRT Monitor

LCD monitors (also known as "flat panel" monitors) are the clear choice for green computing. They consume 50 to 70 percent less energy than their CRT counterparts, emit less heat (which lowers room cooling costs), and have as much as twice the lifespan. LCD monitors also take up a lot less space on your desk. Know the difference between LCD and CRT, and buy LCD unless you have very specific needs for a CRT monitor.


Inkjet vs. Laser vs. Copier/Printer/Fax

Inkjet printers are better for low-capacity printing. They cost less and consume much less power than laser printers. Laser printers are generally more appropriate where they’re used by more than one person and for high-volume printing. When shopping, use Columbia's Computer Energy Usage Calculator (Excel) to evaluate the energy requirements of the products you are considering.

If you are buying for your office, give serious consideration to sharing a printer rather than using a personal one. Also consider buying or leasing an all-in-one copier/printer/fax. Columbia Print Services can advise you on these products. Almost all modern copiers can be connected to the network for direct printing (with built-in double-sided printing, collation and stapling). They can also serve as fax machines and scanners. If you need a copier, you may be able to conserve space and power and eliminate manufacturing waste by using one machine for all your document needs. Plan carefully and consider the environment when deciding what printing options are right for you and your office.


<-- Previous Page | Next Page -->