CPW Computing Ltd

Christine, a committed eco warrior at home, is first to admit that IT isn’t an industry normally associated with saving the planet. Manufacturing a new computer and monitor uses 240kg of fossil fuels, 22kg of chemicals and 1500 litres of water. Worse still, demand for newer, faster technology means that equipment quickly becomes outdated and redundant.

The impact of simply running computer hardware is terrifying, she says. Estimates suggest that computers, printers, phones, etc. generate as much CO2 as the airline industry worldwide. Every year, Britons alone throw away more than 350,000 tonnes of IT equipment. Each monitor can contain as much as 6lbs of lead.

Whilst the whole industry is now controlled by the WEEE Directive (Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act), the need to dispose of equipment responsibly is nothing new to CPW Computing. Long before its introduction in summer 2007, the business was doing all it could; recycling, reusing and extending the life of equipment.

It started with supplying redundant pcs to local schools, but now extends far beyond the local area. CPW Computing now supplies schools in the poor South American country of Guyana, where even 10 year old technology is a novelty. (Christine is quick to point out that customers’ security is never compromised. All hard drives are professionally wiped before equipment leaves the offices.)

But it’s not just the environmental impact of IT equipment that troubles Christine. She believes that a global solution to saving the planet starts on a local level and so CPW Computing collects up electrical and electronic goods, print cartridges and other items for recycling. Paperwork is a thing of the past in their offices too. Invoices and newsletters are now emailed; a move that has saved more than £2000 in postage in the first six months too.

Christine says that their environmental stance is good for morale too. “Our initiative started with an office brainstorm and the ideas just flowed. Of course there is a ‘feel good’ aspect to what we’re doing, but it makes sound business sense too,” she said.

CPW Computing Ltd, Suites 12 & 13, Norfolk House, Williamsport Way, Needham Market, Suffolk IP6 8RW.
t: 44 (0)1449 723 650 f: 44 (0)1449 722 818 e: christine@cpwc.co.uk w: www.cpwc.co.uk