Green Gadgets >

by Kayleen Larson

In Lake Country, spring can take us by surprise, sending us from white to green (or at least a lighter shade of brown) in twenty-four hours flat. Daydreaming of those warm lakeside days to come reminds me of how lucky we are to live in this part of the state with all this natural beauty. It also makes me reflect on how important it is preserve and protect what we have.

Our March/April issue includes several features on "living light" in Lake Country, including the low-down on energy alternatives plus a profile of the area's first-ever sustainable commercial development.

Most of us find it hard to live without technology, but our gadgets take an environmental toll. Here are some that actually help reduce your techno-impact.

Hymini

Use solar, wind energy, or both to power your IPOD, mobile phone, MP3 player, or digital camera with this portable charger.
At: www.hymini.com

WattStopper Occupany Sensor

After telling my kids for the umpteenth time to shut off the lights when they leave a room, I figure this little gadget will quickly pay for itself. It turns lights on automatically when you enter a room and off when you leave, reducing energy use by an estimated 50 percent.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/search?p=Wattstopper+vacancy+sensor&did=

USB Cell AA Batteries

Recharge these batteries hundreds of times using your computer’s USB ports. http://www.usbcell.com/product/1

Compact Fluorescent Lightbulb

You've probably heard it before, but it's worth saying again: Changing to these amazing energy-saver bulbs is perhaps the single easiest thing you can do to save money and energy. http://www.greenhome.com/products/lightbulbspecial.shtml