Fujitsu announces world-first eco computer

23 Apr 2004 | Author: James Rose | Print version | Send to a friend

Japanese electronics giant Fujitsu has heralded its successful development of biodegradable personal computer casings made from vegetable resins.

The company has previously developed technology for the manufacture of notebook PCs using corn and other vegetables, but had been unable to use these parts in many areas of its PC manufacturing process due to the high flammability of these substances.

Whereas the older technology was useful for smaller parts, the fire resistant material allows the company to manufacture biodegradable casings for notebook PCs.

Even when burned the new material will not release toxic dioxins or other dangerous chemical emissions.

Fujitsu says that the new technology will bring down energy usage by up to 40% when compared to standard plastic-based PC casings.

Since the mid-1990’s, Fujitsu has been progressing an initiative called ‘Green Life 21’, which is focussed in part on developing eco-friendly products.

According to the company’s 2003 Sustainability Report, the green products push has ensured that 66% of all new products are considered by the company’s own rating to be ‘green’.

These products include notebook computers, telecommunications infrastructure, mobile phones and desktop computers.

The report notes that, as part of the company’s environmental drive, it has been developing biodegradable plastic bags and packing materials, is using recycled plastics, chromium-free plating, recycled alloys, halogen-free resins and lead-free solders.

The company expects to begin manufacturing the new biodegradable PCs this year.

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