computers | photocopiers | printers

Office Equipment

Keeping your office equipped can be expensive. It also comes at a cost to the environment. Computers, copiers, printers, faxes consume a huge amount of energy and materials to make and use.

Office equipment contains a range of materials: from plastic casing to small metal parts. It simply isn't designed to be recycled. With limited 'end of life' options to choose from, we are forced to dump old equipment in garbage tips, where eventually the toxins they contain will leach and contaminate groundwater.

Most brands have similar environmental credentials - although some initiatives do stand out. We suggest you concentrate on choosing and using equipment to extend its useful life. Maintenance, repair, upgrade and remanufacture are the tools you have to hand. By extending your equipment lifespan you also get better returns on your investment.

Choosing Office Equipment

These general principles hold for all office equipment. Follow the links for specific buying and using tips for computers, printers or photocopiers.

Choose equipment that is designed to last.
Look for design features that support upgrade, repair and remanufacture. How will your business needs change in the next 3 to 5 years?

Pay only for the features you really need.
Many offices pay extra for models with features they hardly ever use. Is it more economical to buy a simpler model and outsource more demanding jobs?

Fix small problems before they become big expensive problems.

Is leasing a better option?
Leasing instead of buying outright can give your business better cash flow and greater flexibility. An 'operating lease' (as opposed to a 'financial lease') means the supplier has a commercial interest in maintaining your equipment!

Choose the right equipment mix.
The distinction between what you can do with photocopiers, printers, faxes and computers is starting to blur. Having fewer pieces of equipment can save you money and lessen your environmental impact.

Mid to high capacity digital copiers can network with computers, providing printer-like functions. Laser printers with high copy per minute capacities can easily produce multiple copies.

Convergent machines can scan, fax, print and copy - perfect if you have limited space, although you may compromise on running cost.

computers | photocopiers | printers

LEADS
Many ecoOFFICE equipment ideas are sourced from the Inner Sydney Waste Board's booklet: "Office Products: A Guide To Sustainable Purchasing And Use".


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	©2001 ecoOFFICE Content by: Jenny Kent and Mim Buchhorn email: webkeeper@nccnsw.org.au Design by: Jacki Stone phone: 0413 900 189 URL: http://ecooffice.com.au Proudly developed by Social Change Online			This project has been assisted by the NSW Government Waste Reduction Program. The opinions expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the policies of the NSW Government nor endorsement of the information, products or companies named.