Martin Eichenseder

Martin Eichenseder introduces TCO Certified, the Swedish sustainability certification for IT hardware that has been setting standards for over 30 years. With more than two decades of experience in product design, manufacturing, and certification, Eichenseder highlights that while sustainable IT products have been technically feasible for decades, real impact only occurs when consumers actively choose these products over less sustainable alternatives.

He emphasizes that extending product lifespan significantly reduces resource consumption and carbon emissions. The core of TCO Certified rests on four pillars: climate impact, circular economy, hazardous substances, and social responsibility in supply chains.

A key initiative is the increased use of recycled plastics in IT products—without compromising durability. Currently, TCO Certified includes a five-year warranty requirement, with the goal of extending it to ten years in the future. Certified products must also receive software updates for five years, ensuring long-term usability.

Eichenseder notes that the public sector often leads the way in sustainable procurement, while private sector engagement still lags behind. He encourages the audience to explore TCO’s criteria and stay informed about future developments, stressing that smart purchasing decisions are essential for meaningful sustainability in tech.