How to Go Green: Gadgets

gadgets recycling cell phones photo
Image: Getty Images/Gallo Images - Neil Overy

Technology has become an essential part of daily life, from cell phones to televisions, music players to laptops. Electronics, though, have a significant impact on the environment. But don't despair. There are countless ways to green up your gadgetry -- or even use your gadgets for environmental causes -- and we have information tips, guides, fix-it solutions and facts all in one place to help you go green with your technology.

Read on for a small sampling of the tips from our new guide for How to Go Green: Gadgets.

gadgets phantom power outlets photo
Getty Images/Martin Poole

Check out what the experts say before buying

Take a look at Energy Star ratings, EPEAT ratings, Consumer Reports, and other expert sources to help you make comparisons among gadgets before purchasing. This will help you find the most energy efficient and eco-friendly items available to you.

Buy used.

Buying a pre-owned electronic accomplishes two excellent goals. First, you help to extend the lifetime of the gadget, lowering its carbon footprint, and secondly, you save money. With the rate at which manufacturers churn out new gadgets, buying barely used gadgets in great shape is an easy task and usually is much less expensive, even for the latest gear. There are great buyback companies such as TechForward that sell refurbished electronics, and places like Craigslist and eBay are also good places to look. Of course, the manufacturers usually offer refurbished gear at reduced prices as well. You might even find what you're seeking free of charge on networks like Freecycle.

Zap vampire power

For true gadget lovers, this may be the most fun tip because you get to green your gadgets with more gadgets. Vampire power is the energy used by devices when they're plugged in but not turned on. Prevent wasted energy first by unplugging any devices not in use or that are fully charged. Then, try using devices like smart power strips that cut the power supply to devices that no longer need it.

This is just the tip of the green gadget iceberg, though. Click on over for the full guide on How to Go Green: Gadgets, and, while you're at it, check out our guides for Electronics, and Buy Green: Desktop Computers and Buy Green: Laptop & Notebook Computers.