energy efficiency

 A new software program, SleepServer, by U.C. San Diego researchers allows computers to have minimal functionality while still operating to cut energy by 60 to 75 percent. 

 A new innovative system from IBM is up and running in Zurich and aims at improving data centre efficiency. The new system, Aquasar, uses special hot water-cooled IBM servers and consumes up to 40% less energy than comparable air-cooled servers. 

 Although technology plays a huge role in creating a greener IT department, considering changing how your employees work has also been shown to have high returns when it comes to sustainability and productivity.

 FIT4Green is a European Union project focused on ICT optimization policies. A recent research project by the organization hopes to reduce data centre energy consumption by 20% without impacting existing performance.

If you're one of the lucky ones that doesn't have flourescent tube lighting in their office, consider a new lightbulb when yours burns out, and you may not be changing it for the next 17 years.

A new GE Energy Smart LED bulb will be on the market at the end of 2010 and although pricey (one bulb is slated to be $50!) the energy savings and longevity are huge.