EPEAT: Electronic Product Environmental Tool - development of an environmental rating system of electronic products for governmental/institutional procurement

The Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) is a new approach for institutional purchasers to identify and evaluate environmentally preferable electronic products. It establishes a clear set of performance criteria for desktop computers, laptops, and monitors, and recognizes higher levels of environmental performance. The tool was developed by a multi-stakeholder group composed of equipment manufacturers, governmental and private purchasers, non-governmental organizations, and environmental professionals. It is designed to be easy to use, with an interactive Web site to speed product registration. The registration process does not slow time to market for new products. The tool encompasses a range of environmental attributes, including toxic materials, material selection, life cycle extension, energy use, design for end of life and end of life management, and packaging. There is significant pent-up market demand for EPEAT. Currently 14 federal agencies and 4 states have pledged to use the tool in future electronics purchasing, representing more than $10 billion in purchasing potential. As a result, several major manufacturers have indicated an interest in registering that their products meet the EPEAT standards. This paper reviews the development of EPEAT, including the structure of the tool, the criteria considered, and the next steps in its development. First, however, we review the current market for green electronic products.