Tech companies continue their efforts to go green as the financial and environmental benefits begin to roll in as consumers try to be more environmentally friendly.
Hewlett-Packard, Dell, and Apple -- the three largest U.S. computer vendors -- have seen demand for green products increase, with each company responding differently. Dell has an active recycling program to help make sure aging technology is recycled safely as opposed to simply being thrown in a landfill. HP also has a recycling program for companies, with Apple electing to remove toxic raw materials from their products.
"It's really a green arms race, in which they're trying to one up each other," according to Technology Business Research analyst John Spooner. ""The good news is they're all working in this direction and that's going to benefit themselves, their customers and the environment."
Although it seems like there is a "green arms race" at the moment, any sign of competition seems to be rather asinine. If the environment is made safer because of companies recycling and removing toxic material, then I honestly think we all win. But if adding a bit of competition into the mix helps push companies to become even more environmentally friendly, I look forward to seeing what they're able to do.
Convincing the computer companies to get on board with recycling -- and supporting city and state recycling drives -- it'll help consumers understand there are other alternatives than dumping old technology into the garbage.
I've noticed a growing trend at each computer show in which green technology is shown off, with HP and other companies setting up booths dedicated specifically for recycling and other green topics. Look for companies to not only increase recycling initiatives, but to do a better job marketing the green practices being used in Silicon Valley.
