As climate change and the desperate need for more sustainable action grows, we’ve put together some simple tips to make your use of IT more eco-friendly.
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Remote or Hybrid Working
Remote working has risen exponentially in the last few years. By allowing staff to work from home, either full or part time, you cut down on travel emissions.
The use of software, such as Microsoft Teams, and advancements in cloud technology, mean we can work collaboratively and hold meetings effectively when working remotely.
Choose Laptop over Desktop
Laptops consume up to 80 percent less electricity than desktop computers and get by on between one-fifth and one-third as much energy.
Choose a Modular Laptop
If you want to go one step further, we’d recommend looking into a modular laptop, like Framework. The Framework laptop is built so that all parts of the laptop can be upgraded or replaced when broken or no longer efficient. This means rather than throwing away an entire laptop, you can simply upgrade the parts needed and save on cost. If you’d like to know more, you can watch our unboxing and demo video on our YouTube channel.
Choose LED Monitors
LED monitors are more energy efficient in comparison to an LCD monitor. They also have a longer life expectancy. LCD monitors last on average 30-50,000 hours. LED monitors, however, last anywhere between 50,000-100,000 hours. If you like, you can even go one further by purchasing OLED monitors.
Switch off Devices and Monitors
Make sure your devices and monitors are switched off at the end of the day. It not only saves on power, but allows the devices to rest, prolonging their lifespan.
Check Your Settings
Adjust your device settings to save power. Look for things like power save mode and sleep mode for when your device is not in use for a certain period of time.
Recycle, Recycle, Recycle
Recycle your old equipment properly. This could be through companies such as Cambridge Computer Recycling or Biffa, or by donating laptops to us to be repurposed for local charities. Plus, your new, shiny replacement will probably use less power.
Don’t forget to also recycle batteries from your keyboard, mouse etc.
Turn Paper into Digital
Review your paper processes and take them digital! There are plenty of options from pre-built software to custom apps – all of which can be affordable.
Set Yourself and Your Business Targets
These are just some of the ways you can help the planet through your IT. To help you achieve them – why not set targets? A percentage decrease in printing, or a target percentage of virtual meetings held?
If you or your business needs support with any of the suggestions above, get in touch to find out how we can help! Every change makes a difference.
