ABSTRACT
IT: Information and Technology kWh: Kilowatt per hour LCA: Lifecycle Analysis/Lifecycle Assessment LCD: Liquid Crystal Display PC: Personal computer PVC: Polyvinylchloride QoS: Quality of Service RAM: Random Access Memory RoHS: Restriction of Hazardous Substances SAN: Storage Area Network SCSI: Small Computer System Interface TCO Certification: Eco label granted by the TCO (Swedish Confederation
of Professional Employees) Development USB: Universal Serial Bus W: Watt (derived unit of power) WEEE: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
1.1 INTRODUCTION Today, for many people, it is hard to imagine a world without computers and the Internet. Current advancements in technology allow us to achieve most things from a computer. For instance, very few people still communicate using postal means, as it is now widely common to stay in touch via e-mail. It is even possible to make phone calls, watch videos, discuss in conference rooms, and play games on a computer via the Internet. Such undertakings are possible thanks to services like voice over internet protocol (VoIP: internet phone calls), streaming (watching movies and listening to music online), social networking, and much more. e availability of these services relies heavily on strong IT infrastructure.
