Did you know…
…..some of today’s electronic devices contain fewer toxic materials, are more easily recycled, and are more energy efficient?
The e.Scrap of yesterday is creating environmental and public health problems today because the mounting piles of toxins were not historically managed in an environmentally-sound manner. Now, we understand the potential threat that these toxins pose to people and the environment. Making sure that you properly reuse and recycle e.Scrap is important in ensuring that yesterday’s e.Scrap is managed safely and responsibly today.
But, did you know that there are things that you and your organization can do today to make a difference in the future? There is increased pressure on electronic product manufacturers from legislation (in California, Maine and in Europe) to reduce or eliminate toxins in the products they make. However, there may be additional efforts you can make to bring those same ‘greener’ electronic devices to Indiana sooner instead of later.
US EPA Energy Star programs and products help save the environment and save consumers money by using less energy through advanced design or construction. For more information, see http://www.energystar.gov/
Consumers can ask for greener electronics when they shop for new devices.
Government and corporate purchasing agents can make an especially large impact by specifying for electronic devices that are more energy efficient, contain fewer toxic components, and are more easily refurbished and recycled. When you purchase greener electronics on the front end, you have lower costs, less risk and less liability at end-of-life.
Several resources are available for helping organizations specify and purchase more environmentally sound electronics:
Principles for Purchasing Environmentally Preferable Computers, Monitors, and Peripherals (PDF)
Green Electronics Bidding and Procurement in Massachusetts (PDF)
State of Indiana Green Computer Purchasing (PDF)
Federal Electronics Challenge (PDF)
Other Green Electronics Procurement Resources (PDF)
US EPA has also developed an Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) for evaluating the environmental performance of electronic products throughout their life cycle. The tool was developed to meet the growing demand by large institutional purchasers to buy greener electronic products. EPEAT consists of a set of criteria for assessing products and a management system for their application and maintenance. For more information, see www.epeat.org
In addition to buying greener electronics, one can also operate electronics in way that reduces energy and is better for the environment. Power management is one such method.
Monitor Power Management: Opportunities for State Agencies (PDF)
 A
Program of the Indiana
Recycling Coalition |
