The effects of climate change are being felt worldwide, with extreme weather and damage to nature and people. We all need to do what we can to help protect our planet. While it’s well known that a meat-free diet and fewer flights are helpful, it may come as a surprise that managing your notebook computer sustainably also has a significant impact. Here are five tips to get you started.
Around 80 percent of a computer’s lifetime emissions occur during the energy-intensive manufacturing phase, where factories are often powered by fossil fuels. Therefore, keeping your computer longer is the most efficient way of reducing its climate impact. Some data and facts: By doubling the use time from three years to six, the annual greenhouse gas footprint is almost halved. Even holding on to your device for just one more year will make a big difference — keeping it for four years instead of three reduces its annual footprint by an impressive 23,5 percent.
So, how can you ensure your device lasts longer? Start by evaluating whether you can keep your current device for another year. If you decide it’s time for a new one, make sure it has the capacity to last. It should ideally have more performance than you need today, so it also covers future needs. It should also be durable and possible to repair and upgrade. Look for a device that can be disassembled and where spare parts are available. The battery should be of good quality and replaceable. Keep it 20 to 80 percent charged to keep the battery functional for longer.
Many IT products are discarded long before the end of their useful life due to expired warranties, lack of software updates, or security concerns. With TCO Certified, products are supported for at least five years. This includes access to longer product warranties and free security and functionality updates throughout this period. Also, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for software updates and maintenance to ensure its longevity. Using cloud-based software can also help extend its lifespan as it requires less performance than traditional software.
If you no longer need your computer, consider reselling or donating it to give it a second life. This way, it can serve another user for a few more years.
Five actions to reduce climate impact
- Choose durable products that are designed for upgrades and repairs.
- Request an extended warranty, along with security and functionality updates.
- Reduce the number of devices you own and use.
- Extend the life of your products, within your organization or beyond.
- Make the effect of extending lifespans visible by annualizing emissions.
TCO Certified helps you reduce emissions
By using TCO Certified in the procurement process, you get access to IT products with a lower climate impact. Criteria ensure that products are designed for a long life and promote energy efficiency in products and factories. IT brands are also required to help increase the demand for renewable energy in manufacturing.
Listen to our climate expert, Robin Askew, as he explains how TCO Certified helps you reduce the climate impact of the IT products you buy and use.
