Nine manufacturers are participating in EPEAT, the EPA-funded green computer standard released in July. More than 300 computers are now registered.
The manufacturers are (links lead to EPEAT profiles): Apple, CTL, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo, NEC Display Solutions, Northern Micro, Panasonic, and Sony.
Many of these manufacturers also made Greenpeace’s report card on electronic manufacturers. For instance, Apple, which had the worst report card, received low scores on almost all criteria and, according to Greenpeace, made no progress from last year.
“Buying green computer equipment is no longer just a desirable thing to do,” says Jeff Omelchuck, EPEAT’s Executive Director. “Many organizations now require it.” As a result, the number of EPEAT registered products and participating manufacturers is expected to continue to grow.
Compared to traditional computer equipment, all EPEAT-registered computers have reduced levels of cadmium, lead, and mercury to better protect human health and the environment. They are more energy efficient and manufacturers must offer safe recycling options for EPEAT registered products.