Little thought may be given to the energy consumption of
computers, but as more and more computers are purchased each year, it is
not just the number of computers that forces increased energy
consumption but the way in which computers are being used that adds to
the building energy burden. Research has shown that most computer
desktops are not being used a great deal of the time they are running
and are left on for long periods of time. As with other forms of energy
consumption, electricity is wasted when it is not being used and this
burns fossil fuels that emit carbon dioxide into the air and cause smog,
acid rain and other detrimental environmental side effects.
The
typical desktop computer consists of a system unit which houses the
central processing unit (CPU), a monitor and a printer. The CPU may
require 100 watts of electrical power; the monitor, which may be 15 to
17 inches, may require another 50-100 watts; a laser printer can use as
much as 100 watts or more while ink printers use as little as 12 watts
while printing. The cost for operating a 200 watt system all day and
night, everyday, would be $125 annually, while the cost of operation for
normal business hours of 40 hours per week would range around $30
annually. Considering the tremendous benefits derived from using
computers, this figure may not appear extensive, but when multiplied by
the many computers used on a daily basis in this country, the total
grows phenomenally.
There are many ways to reduce personal
computer energy consumption.
Computers, printers and monitors can be
turned off when not in use. Many years ago, it was considered harmful to
the computer if it were turned on and off periodically during the
course of a day. However, the internal circuitry of personal computers
is designed to be protected from power damages that might result from on
and off switching. Doing so will not substantially affect the
computer's useful life.
The use of screen savers wastes energy and
should not be used. They go back to the days when, if not used, images
would be ingrained on screens if they remained on too long, but updates
in technology have long made the use of screen savers unnecessary.
The
United States Environmental Protection Agency has also developed
technology for computers and monitors that can be programmed to
automatically power down to a lower power state when not in use. This
"sleep mode" can reduce energy consumption by 60% to 70% and these
"Energy Star" computers serve to gain efficiency without any loss in
computing performance.
Green computing extends beyond the personal
computer to the use of related devices and materials. For example,
paper waste can be reduced by printing as little as possible and only
when necessary, recycling waster paper, using electronic mail instead of
faxing to eliminate the need to produce a hard copy, and trying to
print on both sides of the page when possible. In addition, printer and
toner cartridges can be recycled. Although this is a practice that has
been discouraged in the past by printer and toner cartridge
manufacturers, such recycled cartridges save resources and reduce
pollution and solid waste. Disposing of electronics as well can be done
through recycling agencies to reduce waste and provide for recycling of
functional equipment.
Finally, green computing also means not
buying new equipment unless there is a real need for it. Close
investigations can be made regarding upgrading hardware or software
before purchasing a new computer. However, if the determination is made
that a new computer system should be purchased, there are "Energy Star"
computers, monitors and printers on the market. In addition, ink jet
printers use 80% to 90% less energy than laser printers and soon, even
"Green Computers" will reach the marketplace for sale.
