As concerns about the environmental
impact of IT hardware grow, we see that stakeholders across the
technology value chain—manufacturers, distributors, resellers, and
consumers—are increasingly prioritising energy efficiency and reduced
carbon footprints in their purchasing decisions.
The demand for eco-friendly
electronics has sparked interest in certifications like EPEAT,
a leading global ecolabel for sustainable electronics.
The Electronic Product
Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) is a comprehensive rating
system that evaluates the environmental impact of electronic
products throughout their lifecycle, from production and supply
chain to end-of-life disposal.
In the UK and across Europe,
awareness of sustainability is rising, with ecolabels becoming a key
consideration for procurement decisions. According to CONTEXT market
data, as of 2024, 80% of the best-selling PCs in the UK are certified
EPEAT Gold—a testament to the growing prioritisation of
environmentally responsible products.
While EPEAT certification is a
valuable starting point, leading manufacturers are going further by
disclosing the full carbon footprint of their devices. This includes
emissions from:
- Manufacturing
- Distribution
- Usage
- End-of-life disposal
Our analysis of top-selling
products shows that the median carbon footprint is approximately 240
kg CO2e per device. This transparency enables consumers and
organisations to make more informed decisions, balancing efficiency
with overall environmental impact.
Beyond EPEAT, several
certifications provide additional assurance for sustainable tech procurement:
-
ENERGY STAR: A widely
recognized label signifying adherence to stringent energy
efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR-certified devices are
designed to consume less electricity without compromising
performance.
-
TCO
Certified: Issued by TCO Development, this certification
emphasizes socially responsible manufacturing, ergonomic
design, and minimized environmental impact. It covers IT
products such as laptops, monitors, and smartphones.
Empowering Smarter Choices with
Our Product ESG Database
Recognizing the need for
consolidated sustainability data, we are excited to announce the
upcoming launch of the CONTEXT Product ESG Database. This
platform will bring together ecolabel certifications and
product-level carbon footprint data, enabling users to make
well-informed and sustainable procurement decisions with ease.
Interested in early
access? Sign
up today to stay informed about our release schedule and be
among the first to explore this powerful tool for greener IT procurement.
As sustainability becomes a
cornerstone of IT decision-making, ecolabels and carbon transparency
are paving the way for a greener, more responsible tech ecosystem. By
leveraging tools like EPEAT and upcoming innovations like our Product
ESG Database, we can collectively drive progress toward a sustainable future.
Sign up now for early access
to our Product ESG Database here
and join us in transforming IT procurement for a better planet.
