Computer Monitors... A Missed Opportunity?
Keiran Adkins (Lion)
Enterprise Sales Executive @ Dayforce | Driving New Business Growth
As we navigate the challenges of sustainability and environmental impact, it's essential for companies to explore innovative ways to reduce their carbon contributions. Today, I want to explore if there is an overlooked opportunity that not only benefits the planet but also drives cost savings for organisations: collecting and redeploying monitors for remote employees.
??? Average CO2e Associated with Popular Monitors ???
Did you know that the average carbon footprint of popular monitors ranges from 150 to 300 kg CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent)? The manufacturing and transportation processes involved in producing these electronic devices significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The 24" Dell Monitor you have probably been looking at today is 461 kgCO2e excluding the stand.
1 of these products… has a footprint approx. equivalent to driving 1129 miles in a passenger car. 10 of these products… have a footprint approx. equal to what 5.4 acres of US forests can absorb in a year. 100 of these products… have a footprint about the same as the annual average carbon footprint of 9 people.
Do you take into consideration the Carbon Associated with devices before making them available to employees or is the decision based on spec/price? I'm increasingly being asked to work with our procurement and operations team to curate carbon focused work from home packages to help companies with their ESG goals.
?? The Growing Number of Monitors Working from Home ??
With the rise of remote work, employees are utilising monitors at home for increased productivity. On average, each remote worker has one to two monitors, and these devices play a crucial role in their day-to-day tasks.
?? Is The Solution: Retrieving and Redeploying Monitors? ??
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Instead of always buying new monitors, could you consider implementing a sustainable practice of retrieving monitors from employees who might no longer need them or upgrading their equipment. By doing so, you might not only help reduce e-waste but also make a significant positive impact on the environment.
?? Driving Savings and Reducing Overall Impact ??
When a company embraces the idea of collecting and redeploying monitors, they could also be looking at substantial cost savings. By avoiding repeat purchases of new monitors a company would not only reduces expenses but also help contribute to reducing the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and shipping new devices.
?? The Carbon Impact of Shipment to and from Employees' Homes ??
Now, you might wonder about the carbon footprint associated with shipping monitors to and from employees' homes. While there is a carbon impact involved, it is considered relatively minor compared to the overall savings achieved through this practice but it is a valid point. I will look at trying to calculate the carbon associated with shipping devices for a full comparison.
? Demonstrating Carbon Offsets ?
The carbon emissions from these shipment processes can be offset by adopting eco-friendly practices elsewhere within your organisation. For example, investing in renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, or supporting reforestation initiatives can more than compensate for the emissions generated during transportation.
At Firstbase, we believe that every step towards sustainability counts. By actively participating in monitor retrieval and redeployment efforts, we could collectively work towards reducing our carbon footprint and creating a greener future.