Buy Green Electronics

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Quick Facts Affordability Cost Savings CO2 Reduction   TV efficiency tips You can save plenty with the way you use your existing TV, and you can save even more by buying an energy-efficient TV. Learn more		Prioritize sustainability standards when purchasing new electronic or computer equipment. ENERGY STAR electronics are rated for energy efficiency, reduced levels of hazardous materials and greater product life. Affordability Buying green electronics is about knowing what to look for. ENERGY STAR products are the most energy efficient models available. Cost savings Make energy efficient choices and save. An ENERGY STAR TV, for example, uses about 30% less energy than a standard unit and is rated to consume one watt or less when switched off. Health & comfort Green electronics are designed to save energy and reduce or eliminate harmful materials that have been found to have adverse effects on human health and wildlife. Environmental considerations Green electronics use fewer natural resources and are often made from recyclable materials. Look for models that reduce their hazardous materials content, and buy from companies that offer take-back programs.

What you need to know

• First consider the product's lifecycle (where it will ultimately end up) and whether you actually need the item. Buying less is the best way to reduce waste.
• The next thing to consider is whether you can buy the item used. The BC Electronics Materials Exchange is a great site for finding used electronics, as well as information on electronics recycling. As well, sites such as eBay and Craigslist often offer top-quality electronics at significantly reduced prices.
• If buying used won't work for you, look for proven certification labels, such as ENERGY STAR, Green Specs™ and EPEAT™. Under these certification processes, products must meet rigorous requirements governing everything from how a product is made, to packaging, to how it is disposed of once it is not longer useful.
• Buying green is just the first step. Proper maintenance and use of your green electronic features will help you make the most of your green purchase. Refer to the other tips in this guide for more information on how to maximize energy savings with your electronic and computer equipment.
• For more information on energy efficient electronics, check out the Buying Green Resources.
• Looking to buy? Find more information in the Buyer's Guide for Green Electronics.

Taking it further

• Consider products that use renewable energy sources such as sun, wind, water or even human power. Using renewable energy significantly cuts down CO2 emissions that contribute to global warming.
• Spread the word about buying green electronics to your family and friends. If more people bought green, the collective environmental benefits would be significant.

Television efficiency tips

For your existing TV:

• Switch it off when no one's watching.
• Switch off the power bar. Typically, a TV is plugged into a power bar along with other devices such as DVD players, VCRs or surround sound systems. By switching the power bar off, you can conserve energy because your TV and associated devices won't be drawing unnecessary power, or "phantom loads".
• Watch TV together. It is common for homes to have multiple TVs and for them to be used by members of the household at the same time. Conserve energy and increase your enjoyment by watching TV together.
• Watch less TV. Instead of sitting on the couch watching TV, why not take the opportunity to read a book or go for a bike ride instead?
• Adjust your TV's settings. Depending on the programming and your TV's capabilities, you can adjust its settings to conserve energy. For LCD TVs, reducing the level of backlight can reduce energy consumption. For Plasma TVs, adjusting the contrast level can also result in energy savings. Some models of TVs also have a 'power-saver' mode. Enable this for even more energy savings.

When shopping for a new TV:

• Consider an ENERGY STAR TV. TVs with the ENERGY STAR use about 30% less energy than standard units and are rated to consume one Watt or less when switched off.
• Size matters. When shopping for a TV, purchase one only as large as you require. Larger TVs consume more energy. To determine the right size for your viewing area divide the distance between where you want to sit and the front of the screen by 2.5 (i.e. If you sit 7 feet (2.13 meters) from your TV choose a 32 inch HDTV). This guideline will help you get the most out of your TV viewing experience.
• Check for incentives and rebates when you make energy efficient choices.

FAQ

Are green electronics more expensive?
No. If you consider the energy you save over the long term, green electronics and computers can actually save you money. Green electronics also typically have longer product life and higher resale value. There are often rebate and incentive programs available to Canadian consumers who buy designated green electronics and computers.

Will I sacrifice quality of performance with green electronics?
Definitely not. Manufacturers are coming up with new and improved technology that incorporates green design features, including better longevity and durability. Green electronics are often ahead of the field in other aspects of design.