More and more electronics seem to make Americans’ Christmas lists. Unfortunately, many electronics waste energy and run up electric bills, even while you are not using them. So here’s a list of environmentally friendly, yet still savvy, electronic gifts.
HYmini can charge using solar, wind and wall outlets
The HYmini is an all-in-one solar, wind, USB and wall charger that can be used to recharge almost any 5-volt gadget. It includes a 6 watt, rechargeable Powerbank that collects energy from a built-in wind generator, a .7 watt mini solar panel, wall outlet, or your computer’s USB. The handheld, lightweight charger even fastens safely so you can charge in motion. Even better, there’s no additional software needed. The HYmini features an LED night-light and charge-in green indicator. This all-in-one charger is affordable, retailing for $49.99.
HP Elitebook 2530p rates "gold" on environmental rankings
HP Elitebook 2530p is one of a new generation of notebook computers that are more mindful of their energy footprint. This is just one example of many, but it is among the top rated with a “gold” rating from the certifier known as EPEAT, which is managed by the Green Electronics Council. EPEAT rates electronics as bronze, silver or gold level by assessing their energy consumption, life cycle plan and use of toxic materials. The criteria for EPEAT ratings is extensive. If you buy electronics with high EPEAT ratings, you’ll know that the manufacturer is not just aiming for the bottomline without paying attention to environmental issues like electricity consumption and waste.
Look also for Energy Star label, which this HP notebook computer also has earned. Energy Star and the EPEAT rankings will help you find the best laptop or desktop computer in the “green class” from manufacturers that are trying to minimize their environmental impact.
ETON Green Microlink radio
The Eton SolarLink FR 160 AM/FM weather radio can be solar powered or operated with a hand crank, so you can stay informed no matter what the weather. The radio also comes with a built-in flashlight. A great present for someone who goes off the grid or just likes to be prepared for the inevitable storm. Retails for $29.99, and is available at several stores, such as REI and Radio Shack.
NeatReceipts is a movie scanner and digital filing system for small business owners, or anyone with a hobby that involves a lot of paperwork. It helps you reduce your paper consumption by transferring receipts, business cards, and documents into a digital form; to better organize and manage your business or personal paperwork. The receipt information can be easily exported to multiple money management software programs such as Excel, Quickbooks, and Turbo Tax, and your contacts from business cards can be exported to Outlook. The product includes the necessary software, and also comes with a one year factory warranty. NeatRecipts, weighing less than one pound, can be used at home, at the office or even on the road. NeatReceipts retails for $149.99.
Samsung's Reclaim
Samsung is leading the way in green cell phones, introducing the Samsung Reclaim, the first mobile phone built using “Bio-Plastic”. The Reclaim is made of 40 percent bio-plastic, which is made from corn instead of the petroleum used in most plastics. This type of plastic is 100% biodegradable. The Reclaim also comes with an Energy-Star approved charger, and is packaged in recyclable materials. The Reclaim is more than just an environmental phone, it comes with all other things you want in a phone, advanced messaging, slide-out QWERTY keyboard, 2.0 megapixel camera, full Web browser and more. The Reclaim is available in Earth Green or Ocean Blue. Sprint is the only Reclaim carrier, and depending on your phone plan, the phone could be FREE.
This Vizio Eco model's LED backlights do not utilize mercury, an environmentally harmful substance used in other backlights.
Televisions generally are regarded as energy hogs, but the VIZIO VF551XVT 55-Inch XVT-Series TruLED 240 Hz SPS HDTV consumes 50 percent less energy than current ENERGY STAR guidelines and is mercury free. Vizio’s products comply with the Europen Union’s strict RoHS (Reduction of Hazardous Substances) standard, and its LCD panel glass is halogen and arsenic free.The California-based company also prints its user manuals with vegetable based inks and its boxes are made from recycled cardboard.
Current 3.0 ENERGY STAR TV product specifications require that qualified televisions must address both active and standby power (when your TV is on and off). Vizio says its Eco HDTVs exceed the current minimum standards by at least 15 percent.
To address product life cycle, VIZIO has a partnership with Manufacturers Recycling Management Company (MRM) to assist in collection efforts within the United States. Mail-back, retail drop-off, and local events are encouraged through MRM, details can be found by visiting the MRM website directly at www.mrm.ecotakeback.com or toll free at (888) 769-0149. California customers should go to www.e-recycle.org.
Of course, the greenest home electronics item is the one you don’t buy. But if you are going to scratch that itch, or replace that blown out DVD player, check to make sure the brand and model you’re looking at are Energy Star qualified. This is not difficult, just use the Energy Star home electronics guide, which includes even the latest Blu-Ray devices and other technologically advanced equipment.
Looking for a new fridge or washer and dryer? You can check out appliances on the Energy Star pages as well.
Copyright © 2009 Green Right Now | Distributed by Noofangle Media
Tags: eco-electronics, energy saving electronic gifts, green electronic gifts, green gadgets, household electronics, HP, HYmini, Neat Receipts, Samsung, VIZIO
