Eco-gadgets

Hybrid cars are all the rage, architects and planners are greening the urban landscape, and carbon credits are the new indulgences. Gadgets, too, have gone green. There’s even been a conference on the topic. The Greener Gadgets Conference, held in New York City earlier this month, addressed such topics as design for sustainability, energy efficiency, and greener materials. Here are some gadgets to keep your conscience clear.

Tuning in to turning off

Track how much electricity you’re saving—or identify the electronic toys that are using the most energy—with the PowerCost Monitor. By tapping into your electricity meter, the monitor will show you how much energy—and money—you could save by turning off unneeded appliances and flipping a few light switches. The manufacturer, Blue Line Innovations, claims that users can save between five and 20 percent on their monthly electricity bills, which has to be good. Therefore, it’s a investment at $149.99.

The other vampire slayer

The euphemism for the power used by your gadgets in standby mode is vampire power. Belkin has come up with a new, slim surge protector that works better than garlic in the fight against these vampires. The Conserve has eight outlets, two of which are always on for devices such as modems, while the remaining six turn off at the touch of a remote control, so you won’t have to crawl in the dust behind the entertainment centre to reach the surge protector. The same remote can control multiple Conserves, too. Expect them this summer at major electronics retailers for $55.

Sustainable listening

Fashionation’s Eco-Speakers look like they’ve been fashioned from leftover cardboard boxes. That’s because they are. The three-inch bookshelf speakers, which fold flat for shipping and storage, are made from 100-percent recycled materials, and come in purple, pink, aqua, green, red, or blue, or in eye-catching combinations of red/yellow, purple/blue, and blue/green. The same company also manufactures a colourful range of iPod holders made from organic hemp. The speakers are US$14.95 each.

The answer, my friend, is chargin’ in the wind

Solar power might be great for people who live in more sunny climes, but what is a Wet Coaster to do during those stretches of cloudy, rainy days? The HYmini is a handheld universal charger that turns wind power into electricity. Strap it to your arm while you’re riding your bike through the Endowment Lands, and your cellphone will be charged up by the time you’re done. Wear it while shredding the North Shore slopes and power your iPod the entire time. If the sun does come out, you can accessorize your HYmini with a solar panel to charge devices even faster. A kit including the HYmini, miniSOLAR Panel, and armband is US$69.99.

[originally published in Georgia Straight Living]