How to Buy Green Electronics

When a line of electronics uses less energy than traditional models, it falls into the green electronics category. When you buy green electronics, you're helping the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. You're also taking advantage of the latest advances in consumer technology which allows your products to run longer and more efficiently.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Buy from manufacturers that sponsor green electronics. You'll find current initiatives from electronics manufacturers like Apple, Sony, Sharp, Kodak and Gateway. For a complete listing, use the Green Electronics website.
2. Look at the energy efficiency rating. Make sure the item has gone through a certification program to determine its energy efficiency. Check for Energy Star, 80 Plus or Alt Energy labels.
3. Find out the additional environmental certifications held by the green electronic product. Additional labels include RoHS Compliant and Repurposed. RoHS Compliant products don't contain toxic or harmful substances. A repurposed product means that the device is designed to be recycled or refurbished at the end of its usable life.
4. Locate stores that sell green electronics. Buy eco-friendly computers and more from Verdant Computing and Nuvo Technologies.

Tips & Warnings

• You'll save money when you buy green electronics. The product lasts longer and reduces your home energy usage. Keep your energy usage down even more by unplugging electronics when you're not using them.
• The EPA has recently started an initiative to allow manufacturers to register their green electronic products. You'll know the product has gone through the assessment process if you find an EPEAT label.