Product designers urged to think green
/v3-uk/news/1970031/product-designers-urged-green
31 Jan 2008, Ian Williams , V3
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has created a new standard to help consumer electronics companies make the best decisions on energy efficiency when designing new products.
The IEC is a not-for-profit organisation covering 145 countries which develops international standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.
The IEC 62075 standard was created to aid designers of audio/video and IT equipment, such as laptops, mobile phones and TVs, to minimise the environmental impact.
Designers should consider the entire life cycle of a product, from the materials and energy used in its manufacture, to its efficiency when switched on or in standby mode, and the safe disposal of the product at the end of its life.
"IEC 62075 helps designers consider all aspects of a product from cradle to grave," said Ronnie Amit, general secretary and chief executive at the IEC.
"If we can get designers to think holistically at the start of the product's life cycle, it's a win-win for the consumer, governments and industry alike."
The standard also advises on new environmental regulations, and provides links to numerous government environment agencies around the world.
Do you agree?
A multi-attribute standard - EPEAT
Those looking for IT products that meet the type of lifecycle green design approach recommended by the IEC can use the EPEAT greener computer ratings system at www.epeat.net to look for desktops, laptops and monitors that meet 51 different criteria aimed at reducing toxics, increasing recycled content and ease of recycling,increasing energy efficiency, extending product life and encouraging less wasteful packaging. Products are rated Bronze Silver or Gold depending on how many of the 23 mandatory and 28 optional criteria they meet. Search the product database and see teh environmental benefits from EPEAT purchasing at www.epeat.net. Ask retailers and manufacturers about products' EPEAT ratings - and most mportantly, use the EPEAT tool to green your purchase of computer products!
Posted by GreenGirl, 11 Feb 2008