Environmentally friendly computing gadgets
By Ogunleye George
The need for environmentally friendly computing gadgets and energy saving devices, under the auspices of ‘Green Computing’ has become a global phenomenon with the aim to reduce environmental decadence that emanates from abuse and the rising threat of global warming.
There is no doubt that the bi-product and waste materials from outdated computer and computer related devices has a sizable ecological impact, in that these hardwares are rarely recycled and contains a reasonably amount of lead, cadmium and plastic materials that are brominated to inhibit their ignition and slow their rate of combustion, which could possibly leach toxic breakdown in the environment.
Aside from being harmful to the ecosystem, some of these breakdowns directly or indirectly affect the user.
However, with growing demand, Tech giants are developing environmentally friendly products and rolling out more energy-efficient products such as the liquid crystal displays (LCDs), Which is a substantial energy-saver over less-efficient cathode ray tube (CRT) technology traditionally used for graphical displays like Televisions and computer monitors? Solar-Powered Workstations are fast replacing the traditional energy consuming bulky computing gadgets.
Another drive to sustain and utilize energy is further strengthened by the claim that over $200 billion spent globally each year powering computers, and about 85% of the energy is simply wasted idling.
Some Eco-friendly, Energy-efficient device
Mac mini: The energy-efficient desktop computer by Apple Inc. is made with highly recyclable materials that are free of BFRs and PVCs and operates on 85Watt power input making it 89 percent efficient.
The Low power consumption reduces greenhouse gas emission from power sources, thus lowering the environmental impact. Also, the Mac mini is highly recyclable.
Samsung NC215 Laptop: Solar power still remains a primary source renewable energy. The Samsung NC215 is designed with flat-trail solar panel embedded to its outer covering in angle that traps sun rays and converts them to a clean, efficient electrical energy to power the laptop. With up to 14hours of full battery life powered with solar wattage.
Final Thought
It’s known that as the economy expands, the demand for computing devices rises as business and individuals seek faster way of doing things –‘’The Computing way’’. Information technological devices are upgraded rapidly due to the need for speed, flexibility, simplicity and cost effectiveness; thus outdating the previous technology.
Government can discourage the irresponsible disposal of computer hardware that generally lack biodegradability by putting in place proper ICT waste management body and also giving low tax incentives to industries that practice Green computing.
george.ogunleye@thisdaylive.com;