Dell Inc. (Nasdaq: DELL) says it has launched a long-term Zero Carbon Initiative to maximize the energy efficiency of its products and offset its carbon impact.
Dell committed to reduce the carbon intensity of its global operations by 15% by 2012. To do so, it will focus on IT lifecycle assessments and management of Dell’s direct and indirect climate impacts, through its suppliers and customers.
Dell CEO Michael Dell said, “Our goal is simple and clear.” “We’ll take the lead in setting an environmental standard for our industry that will reflect our partnership with, and direct feedback from, our customers, suppliers and stakeholders, and we intend to maintain that leadership.”
Dell has requested that its primary suppliers begin reporting greenhouse gas emission data. Dell will work with suppliers on emission reduction strategies, but noted that their environmental performance could influence the amount of business it receives from Dell.
Michael Dell also proposed that the effectiveness of corporate climate policies be measured by comparing total reported GHG emissions to annual revenue. He said using this measurement places the company among the lowest emitters of the Fortune 50.
The company also sees its Plant a Tree program as important part of reducing its footprint. Dell is expanding the program to Europe, which allows computer users to offset the emissions associated with the electricity their computers use.
Dell’s Plant a Tree for Meo program was launched in the US in January and is now available in Europe. For less than $2 per notebook or $6 per desktop, customers can offset emissions produced by using electricity for their computers over an average three-year life. The funds will be donated to plant trees in professionally managed reforestation projects.
Michael Dell says he will personally match donations to the program received over the next three months.
Dell is asking customers for suggestions on how to build more environmentally responsible computers.
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