EPEAT is a system to help consumers evaluate, compare and select desktop PCs, notebook PCs and monitors based on their environmental attributes. EPEAT provides a clear and consistent set of performance criteria for product design. See their website for a database that you can search by vendor and product type.
The EPEAT criteria for computer equipment include:
- Reduction/elimination of environmentally sensitive materials (like heavy metals)
- Materials selection (e.g., recycled content)
- Energy conservation (e.g., ENERGYSTAR rating)
- Product longevity/life cycle extension (e.g., ability to upgrade)
- Design for end of life (e.g., reusable and recyclable content)
- End of life management (e.g., take back service)
- Packaging (e.g., recycled and recyclable packing materials)
- Corporate commitment to environment