Switch to a laptop and use less energy
It won’t come as a surprise to find that computers are now a standard feature of many UK homes. But with more and more time spent on our home computers, the electricity used to power our home computers doubled between 2000 and 2005, and by 2020 it is expected to increase by a further third.
Computers aren’t the most energy-hungry appliances, but if you’re in the market for a new computer, it may be worth considering whether a lower-energy alternative might meet your needs.
According to the Energy Savings Trust, laptops run on just a third of the energy used by a desktop PC, which means that, in addition to COsub >2 savings, you could save over £35 a year on electricity bills. when making the change.
Compared to desktop computers, laptop components are smaller and more efficient: they require less electricity to run and are therefore responsible for fewer CO2 emissions.
With no applicable power rating standards within the computer industry, it’s not always clear if your preferred model is as energy efficient as you’d like it to be. However, the EU Energy Star is a voluntary scheme that aims to promote energy efficient office equipment, so look for products with an Energy Star rating.
The Apple MacBook Air meets Energy Star standards for improved energy efficiency and reduction of hazardous components. As well as looking good for being ultra-thin with a 13.3-inch display, a 1.6GHz or 1.8GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, an 80GB 1.8-inch hard drive, and fewer dangerous components Than previous models, the MacBook notebook underscores Apple’s commitment to improving the environmental credentials of its technology. The laptop incorporates a mercury-free LCD display with arsenic-free glass and BFR-free material used for most circuit boards, as well as PVC-free internal cables. It’s even sold in a retail box that’s 56% smaller than the previous packaging and made from 100% recycled material.
If you prefer a Microsoft Windows compatible laptop with green credentials, an HP laptop might be the choice for you. HP laptops are designed for longer battery life and lower power consumption than other laptops. HP products are designed for reliability and upgradeability, thereby extending the functional life of notebook computers, saving IT replacement costs, and reducing waste.
Alternatively, Sony’s VAIO notebooks use an LED-backlit LCD screen, which is mercury-free and more efficient than a traditional lamp-based backlight. An ambient light sensor also automatically adjusts screen brightness to further save energy.
By opting for a laptop over a desktop, you can feel good that you’re using less energy and doing your little bit to reduce carbon emissions.