As a computer scientist by training, I've always been a little chagrined that tech equipment is so bad for the environment. From what I can tell, it's clear now that investment in designing "green" computers is about to skyrocket:

1. Major data centers such as those run by Sun and IBM are starting to make environmental performance (particularly with regard to energy consumption) a major part of their planning.
    
2. Thanks to the hard work of environmental coalitions such as the Computer Take Back Campaign and the GrassRoots Recycling Network, consumer electronics and computer makers are starting to roll out less toxic and more efficient machines.

Thebad newsis that this has resulted in quite a lot of manufacturer claims that are difficult to verify and weigh. Thegood newsis that as the market has grown,third-party rating and verification systems are arrivingto help purchasers make wise green-tech purchases:

• EPEAT rates computers similar to how LEED rates green buildings. Computer models win points for criteria such as reducing toxins, using recycled materials, life-cycle management and energy conservation. The sum of the points won results in a rating (bronze, silver, gold, or nothing if sufficient points are not accumulated). So far, 570 models from 20 manufacturers have been rated. Only 12 have reached the Gold rating.
• If you are more interested in how a manufacturer's whole product line and practices stack up, Greenpeace has developed a company-level rating.
• Green Grid has developed guidelines and metrics for measuring and improving the energy efficiency of data centers.

Thanks to TechSoup for tipping me off to EPEAT.