EPEAT is a system that helps purchasers evaluate, compare and select electronic products based on their environmental attributes. The system currently covers desktop and laptop computers, thin clients, workstations and computer displays, but will expand to additional electronic product categories over time. Standards developmentfor Imaging Equipment and Televisions is nearing completion through IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers), with a computer standard update scheduled to launch in October 2011, and Server and Mobile device standards development anticipated for 2012.

Desktops, laptops and monitors that meet 23 required environmental performance criteria may be registered in EPEAT by their manufacturers in 40 countries worldwide. Registered products are rated Gold, Silver or Bronze depending on the percentage of 28 optional criteria they meet above the 23 baseline criteria - with products meeting 50% or more of the optional criteria scoring Silver and those meeting 75% or higher, Gold.

EPEAT operates an ongoing verification program to assure the credibility of the registry. Products on the EPEAT registry are subject to unannounced audits at any time, and results are publicly reported—this ongoing verification system helps ensure environmental criteria are being met as declared.