Local Policies

This guide offers general suggestions for reducing the environmental impact of your personal computing practices. In particular situations, the requirements of your local computer support department may differ from the recommendations presented here. Always follow instructions from your local support personnel. If you have questions about differences in policy, contact us.

Computers at Columbia

Here at Columbia we have approximately 30,000 computers in our dorm rooms, offices and labs. By conservative estimates, these computers consume 3.5 million kWh of electricity each year, resulting in the release of more than 4.5 million pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere. If these computers aren't properly recycled at the end of their useful lives, their toxins may contaminate soil and water.

Our use of computers and how we dispose of them have a significant impact on the environment. This site constitutes a practical guide to practicing green computing in our offices, dorms and homes.

What You Can Do: A Quick Summary

Buy Green. Buy new equipment only when you need it. When you do buy, select Energy Star-compliant devices and consider the long-term energy requirements of your purchases.

Reduce Energy Consumption. Enable the power management functions of your computer, and turn off your computer and printer when you’re not using them.

Print and Copy Responsibly. Always consider circulating and editing documents electronically. Print and copy on both sides of the paper whenever possible, and follow other tips to conserve paper, ink and toner.

Dispose of Your Computer Properly. When you must part with your computer, consider donating it to Columbia or to a community organization. If its useful life has come to an end, see that it is recycled, never discarded.

Spread the Message to Your Friends and Colleagues. Tell others about the ease and importance of green computing.