Computers

The production, use and disposal of computers place significant loads on the environment. Computers are frequently manufactured using virgin plastics and metals, are difficult to dismantle for the purposes of recycling, contain electronic components that contain hazardous heavy metals and environmental toxins, are constructed or contain components that deliberately prevent easy dismantling or retrofitting, and are energy in-efficient and noisy, among others. Similarly, used computers make up a significant proportion of landfills both in Australia and worldwide as consumers attempt to keep pace with the latest technological developments. Although often forgotten, the environmental impacts of computers also include behavioural elements such as their length of use, and the use of otherwise of power-saving features, among others.

Fortunately, reducing these environmental loads can be achieved through innovation in product design and delivery. An environmentally preferable computer has a number of power-saving features for both the monitor and central control unit, is modular in design to facilitate easy dismantling and upgrading, is constituted almost entirely recyclable components (both plastics and metals), does not contain chlorinated paraffins, has extremely low or no heavy metals in its parts and complies with ISO 9296 noise-level requirements. Furthermore, the manufacturer should provide full product use information on the product including reparability, recyclability and upgradeability, and have environmentally conscious manufacturing processing in place.

Consumer Behaviour Tips

Selecting and environmentally preferable computer can be achieved by considering the following attributes:

• Look for a machine that is Energy-Star and ISO Sound Power Level tested and certified, respectively;
• Choose a machine that has multiple energy-saver and stand-by modes;
• Choose a machine that is modular in design to facilitate simple dismantling, recycling and upgrading;
• Opt for a computer that is manufactured from recycled materials - both the chassis and its parts - and which can itself be recycled at end of life;
• Avoid machines comprised of electronic or photosensitive components that contain cadmium, lead and mercury.
• Avoid photocopiers that are coated, varnished, or labelled in any manner that might prevent the machine from being recycled at end of life.
• Opt for a computer manufactured using environmentally-managed production process, and to which detailed information about the environmental characteristics and best-use information is attached.

For specific information view our Environmental Standard for Computers: www.geca.org.au/standardsregister.htm