The annual Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas is now one of the biggest events of the year even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy. For those who prefer to remain as “green” as possible, 2012 may be the best year for CES yet. This year’s buffet of offerings includes a number of innovative and ground-breaking gadgets that have the added benefit of being environmentally friendly. Here are a few of the best green tech goodies on display at CES 2012 that consumers can look forward to in the coming year.
Rukus Bluetooth Solar-Powered Speaker
Rocking out on the go is a lot easier with portable speakers. Even if don’t find yourself in a remote location without power, there’s no use in tapping the traditional grid if you can supply energy through solar means. The Rukus Bluetooth Solar-Powered Speaker powers itself with an integrated solar panel unit and can accept input from any wireless device that uses the Bluetooth protocol. Paired with an iPhone or an Android smart phone, it’s a handy and green way to kick out the jams regardless of where you are.
Wagan Tech Portable Solar Power Generator
Who wouldn’t like a portable solar power generator? The ability to crank out some watts from any location using nothing but the sun and a bit of finely-engineered hardware has been the dream of many a consumer for years. That dream has finally morphed into reality with the Wagan Tech Solar Generator. It’s a highly-configurable unit that offers remote solar power generation in an oddly printer-like format that’s sure to excite more than a few green geeks.
OLPC XO-3 Tablet
The general trend with tablets is cheaper, thinner, and easier to use. The One Laptop Per Child initiative has already brought low-cost, crank-powered laptops to impoverished citizens in Third World countries around the globe. They’ve now turned their attention to tablets. The OLPC XO-3 tablet boasts a $100 sticker price, a 1024 x 768 pixel 8.0” display, and the ability to recharge the battery with solar panels. The only problem will be getting your hands on one, as they’re sold to governments and NGOs only for the time being.
Solar Focus Solar Kindle
It’s not exactly news that tablet PCs like the iPad and the Kindle Fire are incredibly popular with consumers. While many tablets boast terrific battery life, they all still eventually run out of juice at some point. The Solar Focus Solar Kindle cover allows Kindle users to recharge their E-readers and tablets using solar panels built into the exterior of the device. It also includes a handy reading light, making it one of the more versatile and green accessories you can find.
Nest Self-Programming Thermostat
Electricity waste is one of the biggest problems in the United States when it comes to efficiency and environmental protection. Programmable thermostats are a great way to tackle the problem both for large businesses and individual homeowners. The only problem is that up until now, such devices have been prohibitively expensive. The Nest Self-Programming Thermostat will remember your habits when it comes to turning the heat up or down and use it to manage energy use more effectively.
A Few Final Thoughts
CES may be all about flash, style, and hype, but many of the innovations debuted there become household standards during the following years. Many fail to pan out, and become footnotes in the history of technology. The important thing to focus on is the overall trend of this year’s CES, where a great many devices emphasized reduced power consumption and a commitment to environmentally-friendly manufacturing practices. CES 2012 proved that both consumers and the Earth can be winners through the continuing development of sophisticated technology for end users.
Aside from Zienna Miller’s passion for writing, her other loves include her adorable teacup pigs she bought in Canada at http://buyteacuppigs.net
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