Green computing

Green computing is the study and practice of using computing resources efficiently. Typically, green computing systems or products take into account the so-called triple bottom line of people, planet, profit. This differs somewhat from traditional or standard business practices that focus mainly on the economic viability of a computing solution. These focuses are similar to those of green chemistry; reduction of the use of hazardous materials such as lead at the manufacturing and recycling stages, maximized energy efficiency during the product's lifetime, and recyclability or biodegradability of both a defunct product and of any factory waste.

A typical green computing solution attempts to address some or all of these factors by using environmentally friendly products in an efficient system. For example, an IT manager might purchase Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT)-approved hardware combined with a thin client solution. As compared to a traditional desktop PC configuration, such a configuration would probably reduce IT maintenance-related activities, extend the useful life of the hardware, and allow for responsible recycling of the equipment past its useful life.

The market for Green IT products is growing fastest at the enterprise computing level.[citation needed] Power and cooling costs are some of the biggest concerns addressed by green computing solutions