Green AV FAQ's
Have a Green AV related question and don't see the answer below? Ask our LEED AV Team
Q: What points are available for using AV technology in buildings that are trying to achieve LEED certification?
A: Currently, there are no points specifically available for using any AV technology for buildings that are trying to achieve LEED certification. A point may be earned for building automation systems that regulate light under section SS-c8 in the BD+C rating system, and an AV control system by AMX or Crestron may be used in the design of this solution. However, even though no points are specifically available for specifying AV technologies, these solutions can be part of an overall sustainability approach for every business.
Q: Since LEED doesn't really apply to AV technology at this point, are there any other standards in place for AV integration?
A: InfoComm International, the leading AV industry association, is currently developing a new rating system called STEP. STEP will be launched in early 2011. Click here to read more about the STEP rating system, which was unveiled at the InfoComm show in June 2010.
Q: Is videoconferencing considered a "green" technology?
A: Videoconferencing technology can be considered to be a greener option because it reduces the need to travel as much for business communications. When you use air travel to conduct meetings, there is a measurable carbon impact that you do not have when meetings are conducted remotely over video. Other added benefits to videoconferencing include less time out of the office; increased collaboration for those workers dispersed in many locations, and overall increased productivity. Click here to access our online Carbon Calculator to see how much carbon you could save by using videoconferencing technology.
Q: Are there any AV technology products that are considered more "green" than others, and what standards are used to measure this?
A: There is currently no standard definition of "green AV" when it comes to products, however there are many products available that are considered 'greener' for a variety of reasons. For example, the products may:
- be manufactured in a zero landfill manufacturing facility
- be made from recycled components
- require less energy than comparable products
- generate less waste or VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) than comparable products
Have a question about a "green AV" product? Click here. »
Q: Does Energy Star® apply to AV technology?
A: Interestingly enough, the Energy Star® rating system that applies to most major appliances, such as water heaters and refrigerators in your home, is not generally used when measuring the energy consumption of professional-grade AV products. Many consumer-grade products that do have Energy Star® ratings are not the best solution in integrated projects, which is why it is important to work with an integrator like AVI-SPL on your next project.
Q: I would like to update my facility and have some outdated AV equipment. Can AVI-SPL help with the responsible disposal of this obsolescent technology?
A: AVI-SPL has partnered with MPC (Materials Processing Corp) to create our unique AV Equipment Recycling Program. When you work with us on a technology refresh project, this program ensures that your old equipment never ends up in a landfill as we will manage the process of recycling your old equipment responsibly. To learn more about our AV equipment recycling program, click here.
Q: I have a projector that uses lamps and would like to recycle them; can I recycle my lamps through AVI-SPL?
A: Yes, AVI-SPL has created a projector lamp recycling program with MPC that allows you to recycle your projector lamp for free - the only thing you pay for is the shipping. For more information on the lamp recycling program, click here. »
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