03.Energy labelling
Energy labels
Energy labeling not only allows consumers to make better choices, but has also encouraged whitegood manufacturers to become more eco-friendly.
Energy labels were first introduced on selected whitegoods in 1986 for New South Wales and Victoria, and later rolled out nationwide — but so far not for computing goods.
The star rating labeling system not only allows consumers to easily spot energy efficient devices, but has also become an incentive for manufacturers to phase out energy hungry products in favour of those that are more environmentally friendly.
A report by ACNielsen last year found that 95% of consumers surveyed were in favour of a mandatory energy labelling system being introduced for computing equipment.
What is Energy Star?
Energy Star is an internationally recognised standard that identifies energy efficient computer hardware. Energy Star compliant products have the ability to enter an energy saving ‘standby mode’, and can be identified by the Energy Star symbol on the product’s packaging.
This symbol may also be visible when you first turn on your computer. Many of the world’s leading manufacturers produce Energy Star compliant products, including Compaq, Apple, Sony, IBM, HP and Toshiba.
CHOICE Policy Point
Unlike computers sold in Australia, whitegoods by law must carry energy efficiency labels detailing how much or little energy each product consumes. CHOICE believes that mandatory energy usage labels should be introduced for computer products sold in Australia as well, giving consumers a better idea of just how much power a potential purchase requires.
While many computers on the market surpass other types of household electronic equipment in terms of energy usage, low energy computers are also available. However, due to the lack of an energy labeling system, many consumers may not know about them.
CHOICE recently spoke to Australia’s biggest electronics manufacturers at a conference held at the Australian Greenhouse Office, urging companies to support an energy rating labeling system for computer equipment.
Since 1993, refrigerators in Australia have improved in energy efficiency by 4.6% every year, likely a result of pressure on manufacturers to create more environmentally friendly products. Labelling ensures poor energy performers are clearly identifiable by consumers.
A committee established by the Federal Government recently discussed implementing such an energy consumption labeling scheme for computers and monitors sold in Australia and New Zealand. The proposal was met with reluctance by industry representatives, but negotiations are continuing.