Greener AV: How Your Tech Choices Can Help You Go Green
If you work in a business, school, university or healthcare setting, chances are you use AV (Audio Visual) equipment everyday things like projectors, screens and displays. But did you know that the right AV choices can actually help you reduce your organisation’s carbon footprint and support the UK Government’s Net Zero 2050 goals?
It’s not just the energy these devices use when they’re switched on it’s also the materials they’re made from, how they’re packaged, and what happens when they reach the end of their life. The good news? Leading brands like BenQ, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung and Epson are all making big changes to make their products Greener.
In this guide, we’ll show you how new AV technology can play a part in your sustainability journey and what you can do to make a difference.
Why AV Equipment Matters for Sustainability
You might not think of projectors or displays as eco-issues, but they can make a real impact. Here’s why:
Energy use over time
AV equipment uses power while you’re using it but also leaves a carbon footprint from production, packaging, delivery and disposal.
Maintenance & Waste
Older projectors need regular bulb changes (which often end up in landfill). They can also contain materials like mercury.
User habits matter
Simple things like setting auto shut-off, using energy-saving modes or lowering brightness can make a big difference.
What Are the Big Brands Doing to Go Green?
BenQ
- Using mercury-free, long-lasting light sources.
- Smarter, energy-saving features like SmartEco mode that adjust brightness automatically.
- Smaller, eco-friendly packaging to reduce shipping emissions.
Panasonic
- Projectors made with 10% recycled plastic and washable air filters (so less waste).
- Auto on/off settings to save energy when not in use.
- A company-wide “Illuminating Sustainability” programme—from design to recycling.
Sony, Samsung & Epson
- Moving towards laser and LED models with longer lifespans and lower energy use.
- Epson’s LS12000 laser projector cuts standby power.
- Sony and Samsung are building energy-efficient laser projectors designed to last.
Philips EcoDesign Displays
- Certified by Energy Star for energy efficiency.
- Low power consumption, especially in standby mode.
- Built using recyclable materials, reducing their environmental impact.
Samsung Eco-Friendly QBC Series
- Also, Energy Star Certified for high efficiency.
- Designed with low operating energy consumption.
- Made with recycled plastic components to cut down on raw material use and overall environmental footprint.
A Shift Away from 24/7 Displays
Another important change we’re seeing in the AV world is a move away from 24/7- rated displays. More businesses are now choosing displays designed for 18/7 or 16/7 use instead.
Why?
- These displays are better suited to typical office, education, and healthcare hours.
- They use less energy overall.
- They generate less heat (which also helps reduce cooling costs).
- They come with lower operational costs and a reduced environmental footprint.
It’s a smart switch for organisations looking to balance performance with sustainability and save money along the way!
What You Can Do to Cut Carbon with AV
Choose laser or LED projectors
They last longer and use less energy than old lamp-based models.
Use eco modes
BenQ’s SmartEco, for example, reduces power without affecting image quality. Many other brands offer similar settings
Set automatic shut-off
Why leave a projector running when no one’s using it? Auto-off settings save both power and money.
Keep equipment clean
Dusty filters make projectors work harder, using more energy.
Recycle properly
Don’t just bin old kit, many brands offer recycling or take-back schemes. (speak to one of the team and we will be able to advice on options for you)
Check your energy use
Regular monitoring helps you stay on track with your sustainability goals.
How AV Helps Meet Net Zero 2050
✔️ Lower energy use = lower carbon emissions.
✔️ Fewer bulbs, filters and consumables = less waste.
✔️ Recyclable, long-lasting tech = supports a circular economy.
Why Speak to Projectorpoint?
Here’s how we can help you make smarter, greener AV choices:
Honest, expert advice – We know which projectors and displays offer the best eco credentials, so you get the facts without the sales pitch.
Tailored recommendations
We’ll help you pick the right equipment to suit your organisation’s green goals and Budget.
Support for the full lifecycle
From buying and setting up to recycling and replacing, we’ve got you covered.
Want to reduce your AV carbon footprint?
Contact us today for friendly, expert advice on sustainable AV solutions.
