Top 10 Green Gadgets: Energy Products Articles: Eco20/20

Top 10 Green Gadgets

Looking for some environmentally friendly high tech gadgets? Here are a few fun items that are as useful as they are resourceful!

1. Dell- Outlet Studio Hybrid Desktop

We already know manufacturers have been attempting to green personal computing for quite some time. Usually, the best that could be done manufacturing a few parts with recycled materials and lowering power consumption. Many "green" computers sacrifice power to lessen their ecological impact, and thus remain unpopular among many computer enthusiasts; However, Dell may have just created a nifty balance! The Dell Studio Hybrid PC packs quite a machine into a size 80% smaller than standard desktops. It sports an 87% efficient power supply and uses 70% less power than most full-size desktop machines. The packaging is recyclable, and the documentation is entirely digital, to conserve paper. This machine doesn't skimp on power either! It sports a Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile Processor, DVD/CD/optional Blu-Ray drive, optional TV tuner, wireless input devices, and even Wi-Fi connectivity out of the box. What about when it reaches the end of its service? It even includes a complete recycling kit to make sure it doesn't go to waste! It seems to have more than enough power for the average user.

2. Voltaic - "Kill A Watt" Power Strip

Not so much a "green product" in itself, but if used correctly, can help you monitor how much electricity your entire computer or home theater system is using while keeping it safe from dirty power and dangerous surges. This device's display allows you to monitor voltage, line frequency, amperage, kilowatt hours, current leakage, and more! With this scientifically specific set of information, you'll be equipped to be environmentally conscious about the use of even the most demanding electronics.

3. Voltaic - Generator Solar Laptop Charger

It's a well-known fact that charging portable devices can consume an immense amount of energy. What if you could charge your laptop, camera, or cell phone without taxing the grid? Now you can! This solar-powered laptop bag is made from recycled soda-bottle material, which is waterproof, lightweight, and resistant to those nasty ultra-violet rays. The solar panels are capable of charging most small devices in about 1 hour in the sun, and the bag can't fit a laptop up to the size of a 17'' Macbook Pro.

4. Samsung - Blue Earth Phone

Finally, a phone designed specifically with the environmentally-responsible in mind. This phone features a full touch LCD screen and is made from recycled plastic from used bottles and solar panels. It even includes all sorts of eco-centric applications such as an eco pedometer and eco calendar. The best part? A solar panel integrated into the back of the phone can be used to charge it any time during the day!

5. WeWood - Wooden Watches

What makes these timepieces unique is that they are constructed from 100% natural wood. These stylish watches come in a myriad of fanciful designs, are incredibly lightweight, and with each one you buy, WeWood plants one tree!

6. Husqvarna - Solar-Powered Robotic Automower

This snazzy robot aims to rid us of the monotonous activity of lawn-mowing. After laying a buried wire along the perimeter of the lawn to be mowed, the robot carries out its duty to a custom set length at regular intervals. The automower releases no emissions, and operates with significantly less noise than a traditional gas-powered mower. The collected grass decomposes into fine mulch that the device can later spread during future cuttings. Weighing in at under 20 lbs and generally self-sufficient with its built in solar charger, this device is incredibly eco-cool, although unfortunately quite pricey.

7. Isben Calda - The Gota Dishwasher

This eco-friendly dishwasher design steams the dishes in its pre-wash cycle, and uses the water from the vapors in its wash cycle; effectively using 50% less water. Definitely something to look out for.

8. Eco-heater - Eco-heater

This wall-mounted convection space heater uses 73% less electricity than conventional room heaters. It effectively warms a space of 120 square feet and uses only 400 watts! This device is a much better alternative to conventional heaters, and better for the environment too!

9. Fashionation - Eco-Speakers

These cube-shaped speakers are made from 100% recycled materials and can be folded flat for ultimate portability. They work from the power of your device, so they don't even require batteries. Fortunately, they also come in a variety of styles, too!

10. USB Cell - USBCELL

Last but not least, these innovative NiMH AA rechargeable batteries are as versatile as their alkaline counterparts, with the added ability to recharge in any computer's USB port!