Green technology to heal the Earth

Green technology is most widely referred to technology or inventions aimed at producing energy with very little bad effects on the environment. Most people think of windmills and dams which are popular examples of green technology. But, more recently green buildings controlled by computers are stepping into the highlight.

Popular places for building data centers are Iceland and Norway. Facebook recently built a green data centre here. Also, Microsoft and Google are big adopters as well.

The main aim in green technology is to change the inputs and methods used so that negative effects on the environment are reduced. However, positive outcomes also include increased productivity and efficiency of technology.

Areas of focus for green technology

1. Energy - use of renewable sources like wind, solar, hydroelectric, biofuels and geothermal energy.
2. Green building - considers location, design and materials used for constructing buildings.
3. Environmentally preferred purchasing - RoHS complaint like lead-free, pvc-free, mercury-free parts.
4. Green chemistry - chemical products or methods are designed and transformed so that the use or generation of hazardous substances are limited.
5. Green nanotechnology - materials are operated on a nanoscale level resulting in environmentally safe materials with little or no negative effects on the environment. 

Why should you use green technology?

1. No harmful emissions
2. Increased economic benefits
3. Low maintenance costs
4. Renewable sources of energy used

What can you do to support green technology?

1. Reduce energy consumption - turn off your computer and devices when not in use.
2. Recycle - your phone and laptop batteries are harmful to the environment
3. Use renewable sources of energy - solar, wind, water and biofuel
4. Refuse to use products that cause harm to environment - buy only RoHS compliant devices

Next time you're computer shopping, look for the device's RoHS complaint seal. Would you use a greener computer?