Electronics

10 ways to Green Your Electronics

Indispensable for perpetually plugged-in modern life, electronics— TVs, computers, cell phones, you name it—gobble up energy and are made from a heaping dose of earth-unfriendly materials. Fortunately, there are ways of choosing efficient devices and diminishing their toxic burden.

  1. Choose ENERGY STAR products

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    ENERGY STAR options must meet energy-saving standards and are a great way to reduce your energy requirements.

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  2. Install a power strip

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    Don't let vampire energy suck power from your electronics when they're turned off. Hook 'em up to power strips, hit the off switch, and stop the current.

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  3. Buy rechargeable batteries and a charger

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    Rechargeable batteries cost more than disposable alkalines, but pay for themselves over hundreds of charges and keep batteries out of the waste stream.

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  4. Recycle your computer

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    The heavy metals and chemicals in computers pose serious threats to human health and ecosystems when dumped in landfills.

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  5. Recycle your batteries

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    Though not available everywhere, recycling reduces the number of batteries going to landfills or hazardous household waste disposal facilities.

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  6. Purchase a duplex printer

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    Duplexers let you get more printing for your paper-buck, and save trees to boot. Plus, they usually save energy, too.

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  7. Use ink cartridge refills or remanufactured cartridges

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    Using remanufactured cartridges reduces your garbage and saves resources, too. And since the quality's up and the price is down, what more do you want?

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  8. Unplug your charger

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    Ninety-five percent of the power consumed by an average charger goes into heat, while the charger sits there without a phone attached. An easy way to save energy when you're out and about.

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  9. Practice energy-saving TV habits

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    TVs can use loads of electricity, when they’re on and even when they’re off. Incorporating some simple energy-reducing habits can trim your carbon footprint and your electric bill.

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  10. Buy an energy-efficient TV

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    You care about the environment but you want your MTV too? No worries. With a little forethought you can still purchase an awesome television that doesn't chug a lug energy.

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