In my previous insights, I explained why organisations need to rethink their End-User Computing (EUC) strategies and shared a simple checklist to help them build smarter, more responsible plans tailored to their goals, users, and regions.
As that foundation is laid, it’s critical to put sustainability at the core. From laptops and desktops to peripherals and accessories, the choices made around devices impact not only IT budgets and user productivity but also environmental footprints and regulatory compliance.
Sustainable EUC means selecting devices that align with your company’s climate goals, regulatory mandates, and ethical commitments, while delivering reliability and performance in diverse working environments.
This guide offers a comprehensive sustainability checklist to help IT leaders embed responsible sourcing and lifecycle management into their EUC strategy.
What to Demand from Vendors & Devices
- Specify recognised eco-label tiers (e.g., TCO Gen 9, EPEAT Climate+). Ensures devices meet verified environmental and social standards, reducing overall carbon footprint.
- Request embodied-carbon disclosures (ISO 14067, PAS 2050). To understand full lifecycle emissions to inform refresh cycle decisions.
- Insist on vendor-funded take-back in all deployment regions. Supports responsible recycling and circular economy for end-user devices.
- Audit supply-chain ethics (latest RBA VAP score, Modern Slavery compliance). Certifies devices against verified environmental and social standards, cutting their overall carbon footprint.
- Set minimum firmware support periods and repairability targets. Extends usable device lifespan, lowering total cost of ownership and e-waste.
- Test devices for local climate conditions (humidity, altitude). Guarantees device reliability and energy efficiency in diverse workplaces.
Key Eco-Labels & Certifications for EUC Devices
Not all certifications are created equal. Here are the most relevant for end-user devices, what they mean, and recent updates to watch:
Regional Regulations & Compliance for EUC
EUC devices often span multiple jurisdictions; understanding regional regulations helps avoid compliance risks and future-proofs procurement:
Australia & New Zealand. Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for monitors and power supplies; NTCRS take-back requirements; Modern Slavery Act disclosures
Singapore. Resource Sustainability Act (EPR for IT equipment) since 2021; green procurement guidelines for public sector
Japan. Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for monitors and power supplies; NTCRS take-back requirements; Modern Slavery Act disclosures
China. China RoHS 2 with new 2024 testing standards for restricted substances
India. E-Waste (Management) Rules 2022 requiring OEMs/importers to collect 80% of products sold; ongoing amendments under legal review
South Korea. Eco-Label expansion to tablets and mini-PCs; EPR scheme in public tenders
Embedding Ethical Sourcing in Your EUC Strategy
Ethics matter beyond environmental impact; responsible sourcing reduces risk and protects brand reputation:
Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) Code of Conduct v8.0. Check for vendor audit results to ensure compliance.
Conflict Minerals / Responsible Minerals Initiative. Especially relevant for supply chains feeding US/EU markets.
Modern Slavery Legislation. Mandate supplier disclosures and risk assessments, especially in Australia and New Zealand.
Public Sector Procurement & EUC Sustainability
Many government buyers set strong sustainability expectations, which can serve as best-practice benchmarks:
Australia (Commonwealth & States). Preference for EPEAT Silver+, NTCRS take-back, and Modern Slavery compliance statements
Singapore GovTech. ENERGY STAR compliance, Resource Sustainability Act adherence, and use of low-halogen plastics
Japan National Procurement. Top Runner energy efficiency, Eco-Mark or equivalent certification
Why Sustainability Matters for End-User Computing
Sustainability in your EUC strategy drives more than just environmental benefits. It:
- Reduces Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by extending device lifecycles and lowering energy consumption
- Mitigates Supply Chain Risks by ensuring ethical sourcing and regulatory compliance
- Supports Corporate Climate Commitments with transparent carbon accounting and circular economy practices
- Enhances User Satisfaction and Reliability by testing devices for local conditions and durability
By integrating these sustainability criteria into procurement, IT leaders can transform their EUC strategy into a powerful enabler of business value and responsible growth.
