I have a weakness for techie gadgets. Can't. Resist. The. Shiny. But ... problem is, gadget-buying and gadget-usage isn't always the greenest thing we can do. So how to find balance? You've got technophiles on your gift list, too, so how do you give green while also satisfying the gadget need? Try these simple ways:
1. Buy used. I'm a big fan of Craigslist and even eBay, but with the tech stuff you have to be careful. A better choice is buying refurbished electronics. You can find some great deals that way and they often come with a manufacturer's warranty. Just be sure you know what you;re looking for, and see that all the required parts are there before commiting (manuals, cords, etc).
2. Sell your old stuff for cash. You may be able to score a deal on a trade-in, make a few bucks, or at the very least donate or recycle your old electronic item to make room for the new.
3. Know what you're buying. Do some research. Energy Star has a buying guide for TVs and home video and audio products as well as applliances, lighting, and other home products. Energy Star's product guide has up-to-date information about energy usage and efficiency for a wide variety of products. For computers, laptops, and other tech devices, use the product search tool at EPEAT (Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool), a standards system for evaluating, certifying and registering green computers and other electronics, has a guide as well.
So go ahead, get your shiny. Just make it shiny and green!
(Photo credit: SXC)
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Giving Green Gadgets: How to Choose a Techy Gift
Gadgets are high up on holiday wish lists this year. We're here to help you choose the greenest gift for your tech-savvy loved ones.
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By Jaymi Heimbuch
Santa Maria, CA, USA | Wed Dec 03 14:30:00 EST 2008
Sean Justice/Getty Images
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Throughout the year, we at Planet Green enjoy providing information about buying greener gadgets. Now that we're all launching into the holiday season shopping frenzy, we wanted to take a moment to gather up all those resources so that you get a quick refresher course on what to look for and how to buy green electronics.
What to Know:
As you start your hunt for just the right green gadget, you'll want to keep in mind what to ask to get the information you need to make solid decisions. Review our article on 5 Green Questions to Ask When Buying Gadgets so you'll know how to find what you need to know.
Utilizing Resources:
There are a lot of resources online that can help you quickly narrow down your choices. Energy Star is one such resource, and you can sort through televisions and other items to know what are the most energy efficient options. EPEAT is another great resource for laptops, monitors and similar devices. Utilize the organization's search feature to find the most eco-friendly computer gear.
Buying Used:
If you're looking to save a little cash and want to give new life to refurbished electronics, check out our guide on how to buy used. You'll find some great tips on what to look for and what to ask so that you can find quality items for lower prices.
Getting Ideas:
For quick ideas of gadget that have gotten the TreeHugger thumbs up, check out the Holiday Gift Guide: For the Green Geek If you're looking for laptops or computers, be sure to review the recently updated buy guides for laptops and computers.
Extra Spending Money:
If you have a few gadgets of your own and would like some extra spending money, you'll want to check out the info we have on turning your old gadgets into cash. You might be able to find a great trade-in deal so you can give a gadgety gift for very little money while also getting rid of your old, unwanted electronics.
Finding just the right green gift can be easy! Check out TreeHugger's Give Green to Save Green Gift Guide for more ideas beyond gadgets.
Read more about green gadgets:
How to Go Green: Gadgets
5 Green Questions to Ask When Buying Gadgets
Turn Your Old Gadgets Into Cash
7 Ways to Make Your Gadgets Last
How to Go Green: Home Electronics
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