Sustainable Tech Advances with EPEAT 2.0 Launch


12/11/2025


The Global Electronics Council (GEC) has unveiled EPEAT 2.0, the next evolution of the world’s most recognized ecolabel for sustainable electronics. Building on over twenty years of proven results, this updated version marks a significant advancement for the many stakeholders committed to responsible technology. It features major enhancements to its science-based criteria, aligned with today’s most pressing environmental and social priorities.

A key shift in EPEAT 2.0 is its broadened focus. The standard now evaluates not only the sustainability performance of individual products, but also corporate-level actions and due diligence across the supply chain.

“EPEAT 2.0 is the next step in defining responsible technology leadership,” said Bob Mitchell, CEO of GEC. “With input from a diverse stakeholder community, we strengthened EPEAT’s foundation and created a modernized framework that drives real, measurable progress. This evolution significantly expands EPEAT’s relevance, reach and value for organizations that depend on it.”

The new version uses a modular and streamlined structure that emphasizes meaningful impact. Its updated criteria apply consistently across product categories and target the most critical sustainability issues, including:
Climate: Cutting greenhouse gas emissions throughout the product lifecycle. Circularity: Encouraging design practices that support reuse, repair, recycling, and better management of packaging, water and waste. Chemicals of Concern: Phasing out hazardous substances that pose risks to people and the environment. Responsible Supply Chains: Promoting safe working conditions, ethical labor practices and responsible material sourcing.
EPEAT 2.0 launches with registered products from Dell Technologies, HP, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise.

“This update will simplify the process for central procurement bodies—such as Ireland’s Office of Government Procurement—to find products aligned with public sector sustainability goals,” noted Fergal Ryan, Portfolio Manager for ICT Procurement in Ireland.

For years, the EPEAT Program, run by GEC, has set the standard for environmental and social responsibility in electronics. Alongside the criteria overhaul, the transition to EPEAT 2.0 brings additional upgrades designed to support global buyers, policymakers and manufacturers committed to verified sustainability. These include a redesigned EPEAT registry and new initiatives for retailers and supply chain partners.

During a transition period, products will be eligible for registration under both EPEAT 1.0 and EPEAT 2.0. Manufacturers may continue adding products under the 1.0 criteria until July 1, 2026. By July 1, 2027, all items listed in the EPEAT Registry will need to meet EPEAT 2.0 requirements, completing the shift.

Products certified under EPEAT 1.0 will remain available on the registry throughout the transition to ensure consistent access for purchasers.
 
Developed through a balanced, consensus-driven process involving manufacturers, researchers, sustainability experts, government agencies and institutional buyers, EPEAT 2.0 embodies global collaboration.