Before you buy that next wiz-bang gadget for the electronics lover on your list, why not check out Green Electronics? The Seattle-based company designs, sells and installs leading brands and system solutions for those green-minded consumers who seek better performance, while being more energy efficient and less harmful to the environment.
So don’t just run to Wal-Mart because you can get a cheap deal on a TV. You are just stocking up on junk and may but be hurting your loved one with exposure to toxic materials. Make the right choice this holiday season! Less is the new more!
Green Electronics Terms
ENERGY STAR: A joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. Energy efficient choices save families about one third on their energy bill with similar savings in greenhouse gas emissions. An ENERGY STAR product does not sacrifice features, style or comfort.
The 80 PLUS: This performance specification requires power supplies in computers and servers to be 80% or greater in energy efficiency at 20%, 50% and 100% of the rated load, with a true power factor of 0.9 or greater. This makes an 80 PLUS certified power supply substantially more efficient than current power supplies.
Product operates using alternative energy sources i.e. Solar, Wind, Wind-Up: Alternative or renewable energy refers to the harnessing of clean and unlimited power sources like the sun, wind, water or even human power and converting that power into electricity through a device or system. Renewable energy is clean energy and does not emit any CO2 emmisions associated with climate change.
Electronics are RoHS compliant: RoHS (Restricted use of Hazardous Substances) is a European standard that restricts the use of six hazardous materials found in electrical and electronic products. With some exceptions RoHS compliant products do not contain any Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, Hexavalent Chromium, Polybrominated Biphenyl and Polybrominated Biphenyl Ethers deemed harmful or toxic to human health and the environment. Although not currently legislated in the U.S., consumers still benefit from many manufacturers who have transitioned their overall manufacturing to meet the RoHS compliant standard in all markets, including the U.S.
Optimized Design: Electronics are designed with sustainability and long term customer value in mind. Electronics design advances multi-functionality while reducing size, weight and material use. Packaging materials are reduced and incorporate recycled or recyclable materials. Product lifecycle is extended through upgrades, trade-in, trade-up, refurbishment and resale.
Repurposed/ Recycled: Product is WEEE compliant (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). Manufacturer offers or sponsors an end of life, trade-in, take-back, recovery or recycling program ensuring hazardous electronics waste does not end up in landfills. Products, components, materials and packaging are either refurbished for resale, recycled or reclaimed for reuse in new or additional products.
Manufacturer has an environmental charter: Electronics manufacturer has an environmental charter with goals and objectives that embrace environmental policies, practices and incentives for employees and suppliers to achieve a more sustainable business model. Company typically publishes an annual environmental report card or audit of its progress in these areas.
