Environmental Sustainability in the Computer Industry for Competitive Advantage

Abstract

The computer industry is quite often blamed for excessive energy consumption, carbon emissions, and e-waste. Shipment of e-waste to developing countries where it is often disposed of in unsafe ways is another major issue. Implementation of an end-to-end computer and related products sustainability management strategy by incorporating the reuse of existing technology can make a major impact on the environment. Organizations can take sustainability programs as part of business strategies to achieve competitive advantage in the industry. This chapter discusses different aspects of a sustainable computer industry program and proposes that computer makers take ownership of disposing of e-waste by following safety standards. The chapter also proposes adopting a reverse supply chain process for possible reuse, recycle, or disposal of computers. The author also points out that adopting strategic sustainability initiatives can help an organization to achieve competitive advantage.