15.4.7.7. Steps that can be taken

• Power-down the CPU and all peripherals during extended periods of inactivity.
• Try to do computer-related tasks during contiguous, intensive blocks of time, leaving hardware off at other times.

This chunk emphasizes the importance of managing energy consumption by powering down computers and peripherals when they're not in use. By turning off devices during long breaks or when they are not actively being used, we can significantly reduce energy waste. In addition, organizing tasks in a way that minimizes the time hardware is left on can help further reduce unnecessary energy usage.

Think of it like turning off the lights in rooms you’re not currently using at home. Just as it saves electricity to keep lights off when you don’t need them, powering down computers and devices when they're idle saves energy and helps lower electricity bills.

• Power-up and power-down energy-intensive peripherals such as laser printers according to need.
• Use liquid-crystal-display (LCD) monitors rather than cathode-ray-tube (CRT) monitors.

By only using peripherals like printers when needed, and switching them off thereafter, users can significantly cut down on energy consumption. Furthermore, switching from CRT monitors, which consume more power, to LCD monitors can save energy because LCDs are generally more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan.

Consider a restaurant that only turns on the kitchen equipment when it's busy and turns everything off during downtime. This not only saves energy but also extends the life of the equipment. Similarly, by judiciously managing computer peripherals, users can avoid unnecessary power usage.

• Use notebook computers rather than desktop computers whenever possible.
• Use the power-management features to turn off hard drives and displays after several minutes of inactivity.

Notebook computers are designed to be more energy-efficient compared to desktops, resulting in lower energy costs and more portability. Additionally, utilizing built-in power management features allows computers to automatically turn off components like hard drives and displays after they have not been used for a certain period, which further conserves power.

Imagine a cell phone that powers down the screen when you’re not looking at it. Just like this feature extends battery life, using power-management settings on computers can significantly reduce energy waste.

• Minimize the use of paper and properly recycle waste paper.
• Dispose of e-waste according to federal, state and local regulations.

Reducing paper usage is a straightforward yet effective step towards greener computing. By adopting digital alternatives and ensuring that unused paper is recycled properly, we can contribute to environmental conservation. Additionally, e-waste, which includes discarded electronic devices, can contain harmful materials. Proper disposal following regulations helps mitigate environmental damage.

Think of it this way: just as using reusable bags reduces waste from plastic bags, reducing paper usage preserves trees and saves energy. Moreover, recycling creates a circular economy where materials are reused instead of heading to the landfill.

• Employ alternative energy sources for computing workstations, servers, networks and data centers.

Using alternative energy sources such as solar or wind power to run computing equipment can drastically reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lowering the carbon footprint associated with energy consumption. This shift not only promotes sustainability but can also lead to cost savings in the long run, as alternative energy sources become increasingly cost-effective.

Consider how some homes harness solar panels to generate their electricity. By using similar renewable energy strategies for workstations and data centers, companies can cut costs and minimize their environmental impact, much like homeowners do with their electricity bills.

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