It is generally accurate to say that “it requires money to make money.” With all the wonderful digital gadgets we use every day to conduct business and create things, we may now add, “It takes energy to earn money.” The issue is that running all the computers, peripherals, big screen displays, and multimedia systems in our homes and offices can consume a significant amount of energy. And still more to keep all those cell phones, digital cameras, GPS units, iPods, and portable game consoles fully charged. We therefore spend more and more energy with all of our cherished electronics even while energy costs are rising and more and more people are realizing that a shift to renewable energy sources is necessary due to climatic changes, pollution, and depleting oil reserves.
Does that imply that the very development that created the marvelous world of digital electronics is also entangling us in a web of increasing energy dependence and skyrocketing financial and environmental costs? It’s not necessary to be that way. There is no reason why business and the environment should conflict. In reality, there is a green electronics movement that aims to make our cherished devices more eco-friendly and energy-efficient. Electronics are becoming more energy-efficient and either biodegradable or easier to recycle, reducing what is now known as “e-waste” from millions of tons of landfill to reused and recycled resources. The movement spans the entire spectrum, from large international conglomerates pledging to recycle, reuse, and conserve, all the way to these developments.
It makes perfect sense to conserve energy and recycle, therefore it is not surprising that businesses are now focusing on eco-friendly gadgets and energy sustainability. After all, it’s wise from an economic and PR perspective. It goes more than that, though. Even businesses that sell both digital gadgets AND renewable energy items exist nowadays. It is simple to understand how a business owner who is concerned about the environment might be motivated to sell solar and wind energy products as well as digital electronics produced by organizations that have recognized the interdependence of business and society and, as a result, embraced green technology.
Items certified for low emissions, products certified to be more energy-efficient (such the Energy Star commitment and standard), products using solar chargers, or other products utilizing energy-saving technologies are all examples of “green technology.” Supporting businesses that actively “go green” includes boosting recyclable content, eliminating ecologically damaging materials, utilizing renewable energy during the production process, and donating to environmental causes and projects.
Why do businesses go green? Because being viewed as a green company that cares about the environment is not only the moral thing to do, but also a growing competitive advantage. Similar to how many customers reject pesticides and demand foods cultivated without chemicals, more and more customers need green, energy-efficient technology from firms who care. It’s encouraging to know that these companies produce hugely popular products like the iPhone and Wii gaming systems.
What we’re actually witnessing here is an inevitable, quickening trend toward wiser, more environmentally conscious, cost-effective, and conscientious consumption. We must all work to reduce trash and support green, sustainable, and renewable energy.
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