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Trimming energy costs with LCD monitorsJuly 13, 2009 KALAMAZOO--As part of ongoing efforts to reduce energy consumption, Western Michigan University is offering its departments and offices a $30 trade-in on CRT computer monitors when upgrading to any new LCD monitor. LCD (liquid crystal display, also called "flat screen") monitors use less electricity than CRTs (cathode ray tubes) in both active and sleep modes. Overall, LCDs use about 60 percent less energy than CRTs of comparable size. LCDs also generate far less heat, which can reduce air conditioning costs. The cumulative savings by switching entire offices from CRT to LCD monitors can be enormous. WMU can expect to recoup the cost of the trade-in program in energy savings in less than three years, says Anand Sankey, director of engineering and maintenance. The program is being offered through TotalTech, the WMU electronics store, through the end of July. It applies only to WMU-owned CRTs in actual use. The collected CRTs will be recycled, and offices that have old CRTs in storage are being encouraged to contact WMU Recycling Services to properly dispose of them, as well. In addition to using less energy than CRTs, LCDs take up less space and weigh much less. LCDs do not have electromagnetic emissions and studies have shown that they improve visual work performance and reduce eyestrain. For more on WMU energy reduction and sustainability efforts, visit wmich.edu/sustainability. For details on the $30 CRT trade-in program, contact Mike Strong at michael.strong@wmich.edu or (269) 387-5460. Media contact: Thom Myers, (269) 387-8400, thom.myers@wmich.edu WMU News |
