Green IT is the study and practice of using computing resources efficiently. It is known for its broader, economy-wide capacity for energy saving and potential to effect rapid and profound change across every facet of government, industry and consumers.

The goals of green computing are similar to green chemistry; reduce the use of hazardous materials, maximize energy efficiency during the product's lifetime, and promote the recyclability or biodegradability of defunct products and factory waste. Research continues into key areas such as making the use of computers as energy-efficient as possible, and designing algorithms and systems for efficiency-related computer technologies.