Sustainable Computer Certification Extends Global Reach
August 11, 2009 - The Green Electronics Council announced today that it has localized its computer ratings to over 40 countries, giving international companies a standard resource for sustainable electronics evaluation.
The Electronic Environmental Assessment Tool , or EPEAT as it is known, evaluates computers and computer monitors based on attributes such as energy savings, production methods, toxic components, packaging, life spans, and the ease with which electronics can be recycled. Registries announced on Monday were localized for regions including Canada, Europe, China, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and Mexico.
The greatest benefit will be realized by companies with procurement departments that cross national borders by streamlining purchasing processes. These businesses can now see what products in EPEAT are available in what countries, instantly. When the registry launched in 2006, it had only been localized to the United States, resulting in companies not knowing where different products were available.
The program has seen explosive growth in its short life, with an estimated $60 billion dollars worth of electronics procurement specifically requiring EPEAT registration. With more companies looking to sustainability as a competitive differentiator and increased external pressure for electronics companies to "green" their products, that number is sure to continue its upward trajectory.
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