Green computing sector to reach $223.7bn in 2013: NextGen Research

OYSTER BAY, USA: A green computer/server is one that is built from eco-friendly materials, features low power consumption and Computer Power Management (CPM) capabilities, has fewer and smaller component parts and generates less heat than previous models, and ultimately is responsible for the emission of less C02 into the atmosphere.

A wholly green product will be packaged in recyclable materials and, at the end of its useful life cycle, will be traded in to the manufacturer or to another organization that will reuse and/or recycle the equipment, rather than dumping it into a landfill.

The goal of producing a 100 percent wholly-green-from-inception-to-production-to-end-of-lifecycle PC, notebook computer, monitor and server hardware is not fully realized, and will not be for years to come, according to the NextGen Research study “Green Computing: Reducing the Environmental Impact of PCs, Servers By Using Safer Materials, Slashing Power Needs”.

However, computer and server vendors are working to make their products increasingly energy-efficient and environmentally benign, in order to tap into a market for green computing equipment that will grow from about $47 billion in 2009 to $223.7 billion in 2013.

The study’s author, Laura DiDio, notes that all the hardware vendors competing in the computing equipment sectors share the common philosophy that “green desktop and server hardware is good for the planet, and what’s good for the planet is good for business.” They’re also motivated by a lengthening list of legislative initiatives that regulate everything from component materials, manufacturing guidelines, green building codes, and carbon emissions to disposal and recycling efforts.

As the recession ebbs and the economy strengthens, the burgeoning global green PC and server hardware market will be spurred by a number of key trends, which include growing electrical demand; constraints on corporate data space, power requirements and costs; and a lower cost of ownership for green computing products that can help cost-constrained corporations keep more green in their wallets over the long term.

Ms. DiDio also notes that governmental and utility incentives and mandates to curb power consumption and reduce carbon footprints will help spur demand for green computing equipment. However, she says, “It will take years beyond the forecast period before all computer and server hardware consists of electrically efficient devices made up of biodegradable, recyclable and/or reusable parts.”