We all should (and want) to minimise the effects our computers have on the environmental footprint of our world, it is also possible to minimise environmental effects and maximise cost savings by knowing the facts and developing the right computer usage habits.
Adopting some simple daily habits will minimize energy use, help the environment, and save you money.
Turn off your computer: Computers are designed so that frequent shut downs will not significantly affect them. In fact, turning off a system saves energy and may prolong the life of your computer.
Turn off your screen: Remember to ALWAYS turn off your screen at night and when it is not being used. Even if you have power management enabled for your screen, leaving a screen on all night uses significant amounts electricity. If you need to leave your computer running for the day, consider turning off your screen when you are in meetings or away for lunch.
Enable power management features: All computers made in the last 6 years come with power management features to minimize energy use. These features enable the computer to go into low power mode when not being used. Purchasing Energy Star qualified computers, screens, and printers can save energy, money, and reduce pollution.
Skip the screen “saver” Active Mode: Moving screen savers don’t “save” you any money or energy. Studies show that enabling the power management features of your screen can save you up to £50.00 a year, possibly more, depending upon your usage habits and local electricity rates. Screen savers were originally designed to “save” the phosphorescent coating inside your screen, but this was only really an issue for black and white screens that are rarely used today. The best thing to do for your screen and your carbon footprint is to turn off your screen when you are not using it.
Printing: You can reduce the environmental effects of printing by using communication and editing tools on your computer. Increase methods of paperless communication such as e-mail. Edit electronic documents on the computer instead of a printed hard copy or use the clean side of a previously printed document for printing drafts. Use recycled paper with high post-consumer recycled content for your printing needs. Consider purchasing an all-in-one (print, copy, fax, and/or scan) system that saves energy and eliminates the need for multiple devices in the home or office environment.
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