What is Green Computing?

Green Computing is the study and practice of using computing resources efficiently. The primary objective of such a program is to account for the triple bottom line, an expanded spectrum of values and criteria for measuring organizational (and societal) success. The goals are similar to the goals of green chemistry that reduce the use of hazardous materials, maximize energy efficiency during the product’s lifetime, and promote recyclability or biodegradability of defunct products and factory waste.

Modern IT systems rely upon a complicated mix of people, networks, hardware and software. Green computing includes the implementation of energy-efficient central processing units (CPUs), servers and peripherals as well as reduced resource consumption and proper disposal of electronic waste (e-waste).

Here is a list of what we can do to contribute:

• Turn off the computers and all peripherals during extended periods of inactivity.
• Try to do computer-related tasks during contiguous, intensive blocks of time, leaving hardware off at other times.
• Power-up and power-down energy-intensive peripherals such as laser printers according to need, read manuals for suggestion.
• Use LCD monitors rather than CRT monitors.
• Use laptop computers rather than desktop computers whenever possible.
• Use energy-saving features to turn off monitors, hard disks or hibernate computers after several minutes of inactivity.
• Minimize the use of paper and properly recycle waste paper.
• Dispose of e-waste according to federal, state and local regulations.
• Employ alternative energy sources for computing workstations, servers, networks and data centers.
• Follow industrial standards when design, code software systems to enable reusability of models, source code and services to reduce cost and cycle time.
• Support and use open source software that millions of software developers and IT organizers have been working together to develop.