Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Intel wants to have conflict-free processors by the end of 2013]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/intel-wants-to-have-conflict-free-processors-by-the-end-of-2013/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/intel-wants-to-have-conflict-free-processors-by-the-end-of-2013/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/17/intel-wants-to-have-conflict-free-processors-by-the-end-of-2013/#comments Image

Intel had already promised that it would avoid using conflict minerals, and now it's giving itself a more concrete timetable for that to happen. It wants to have at least one processor that's proven completely conflict-free across four key minerals -- gold, tantalum, tin and tungsten -- by the end of 2013. Lest you think Intel's not taking swift enough action, it wants to reach the tantalum goal by the end of this year. The effort's part of a wider array of goals that should cut back on the energy use, power and water use by 2020. Sooner rather than later, though, you'll be buying a late-generation Haswell- or Broadwell-based PC knowing that the chip inside was made under nobler conditions.

Continue reading Intel wants to have conflict-free processors by the end of 2013

Intel wants to have conflict-free processors by the end of 2013 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 May 2012 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last February, Apple came clean about its efforts to clean up the environment, detailing intentions to make its Maiden, NC data facility a greener place. That site, already home to one solar farm, is now set to host a second 20 megawatt photovoltaic array spanning 100 acres, a one-two power punch that'll jointly generate 84 million kWh annually. Combined with the company's in-development biofuel cell plant, scheduled for opening later this year, that theoretic yield should hit the 124 million kWh mark -- an amount sufficient to power nearly 11,000 households -- providing 60 percent of the center's electric demands. Still, that's not enough to adequately keep operations afloat, so for that very necessary, leftover 40 percent, the house that Jobs built plans to purchase similar clean energy from outside local sources. When all is finally up and running smoothly, the southern facility will earn the distinction of "most environmentally sound data center ever built." Or, at least until another well-heeled competitor comes along to contest that title. Now that's a friendly competition we can get behind.

Apple breaks ground on second solar farm for North Carolina data center originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledata centerdata centersDataCenterDataCentersenvironmentfuel cellsFuelCellsnorth carolinaNorthCarolinarenewable energyRenewableEnergysolar energySolarEnergyThu, 17 May 2012 17:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft puts a price on carbon, says its footprint will be neutral by July]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/microsoft-puts-a-price-on-carbon-says-its-footprint-will-be-neu/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/microsoft-puts-a-price-on-carbon-says-its-footprint-will-be-neu/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/microsoft-puts-a-price-on-carbon-says-its-footprint-will-be-neu/#comments Image

We've seen quite a few tech companies boast about their environmental efforts in recent years, and it looks like you can now also add Microsoft to the list of those attempting to be carbon neutral. As you might expect, while that includes some alternative energy efforts and energy-saving measures, it also makes use of a carbon offset program to make up the difference, which will see Microsoft put money into an internal fund for emissions it's not able to offset through other means. That means Microsoft will be able to declare itself carbon neutral fairly soon -- by the start of the 2013 fiscal year, to be specific, which actually begins this July. You can find additional details on the initiative in the company's blog post on the subject, and yet more in the white paper linked below.

Microsoft puts a price on carbon, says its footprint will be neutral by July originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 May 2012 01:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carboncarbon neutralcarbon offsetcarbon offsetscarbon taxCarbonNeutralCarbonOffsetCarbonOffsetsCarbonTaxenvironmentenvironmentalmicrosoftminipostoffsetWed, 09 May 2012 01:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic forms new Eco Solutions unit, aims to be 'leader in green innovation' by 2018]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/panasonic-forms-new-eco-solutions-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/panasonic-forms-new-eco-solutions-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/18/panasonic-forms-new-eco-solutions-unit/#comments Image

Panasonic has been touting its eco-minded efforts for quite some time now, but it's gone one step further at the currently-happening Fortune Brainstorm Green Conference. The company has announced the formation of a new Eco Solutions business unit, which will be focused on "end-to-end energy solutions" for the United States and Canada. Things remain a bit vague beyond that, but the company will apparently help design, implement and finance various renewable and energy efficient projects, and Panasonic hopes that the new unit will help it become "the leader in green innovation in the electronics industry by 2018." It does have one firm commitment to get things started though; the new division has partnered with the Denver-based Renewable Social Benefit Funds to develop commercial-scale solar projects in North America -- something Panasonic itself already has a fair bit of experience with.

Continue reading Panasonic forms new Eco Solutions unit, aims to be 'leader in green innovation' by 2018

Panasonic forms new Eco Solutions unit, aims to be 'leader in green innovation' by 2018 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 06:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoEco SolutionsEcoSolutionsenvironmentgreenminipostpanasonicPanasonic Eco SolutionsPanasonicEcoSolutionssolarsolar powerSolarPowerWed, 18 Apr 2012 06:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Google patent outlines ads targeted to 'environmental conditions']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/21/google-patent-outlines-ads-targeted-to-environmental-conditions/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/21/google-patent-outlines-ads-targeted-to-environmental-conditions/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/21/google-patent-outlines-ads-targeted-to-environmental-conditions/#comments Image
The ad game is all about targeting: demographics, locations, keywords -- and really, few companies are more equipped to target users than Google. In case you were worried that the search giant doesn't have enough information to harvest, a newly surfaced patent outlines the company's interesting utilizing environmental conditions, including things like temperature, humidity, sound, light or air composition, in order to serve up advertisements to devices. Of course, as with other interesting ad patents from the company, the fact that Google applied doesn't necessary mean we'll be seeing this specific technology rolling out any time soon -- or ever, for that matter.

Google patent outlines ads targeted to 'environmental conditions' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisingenvironmentgooglegoogle adsGoogleAdsmobilemobile adsMobileAdsmobilepostcrosspatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationtemperatureusptoWed, 21 Mar 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: i-oniq hybrid, spherical solar cell and an incredible LEGO printer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/inhabitats-week-in-green-i-oniq-hybrid-spherical-solar-cell-a/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/inhabitats-week-in-green-i-oniq-hybrid-spherical-solar-cell-a/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/inhabitats-week-in-green-i-oniq-hybrid-spherical-solar-cell-a/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
This week epic green transportation initiatives kicked off around the world as Inhabitat reported that Shenzhen, China launched the world's largest electric vehicle fleet and London's brand new Eco-Routemaster hybrid bus hit the streets for the first time. We also showcased an earthquake-proof Japanese building system capable of levitating an entire house, and we brought you sneak peeks at the hottest eco vehicles that will be unveiled at next week's Geneva Motor Show, including Hyundai's sexy i-oniq hybrid and Infiniti's Emerg-E plug-in. Audi also turned heads with its souped-up R18 E-Tron Quattro hybrid Le Mans racer, and Perave's 350 MPGe MonoTracer electric motorcycle hit the market.

It was also a bright week for renewable energy with a revolutionary spherical solar cell capable of capturing light from all directions, and Austria Solar sending out a "sun-powered" annual report that only appears when exposed to sunlight. Meanwhile, we said goodbye to the polluting energy technology of the past as Midwest utilities shuttered 10 fossil fuel-powered plants and the world's oldest nuclear reactor closed up shop in the UK. Brilliant designers also chased away dark winter days with a sunflower-shaped heliostat that can flood any house with natural light and a cheap, photovoltaic Little Sun lamp for the developing world.

Green tech also wired the world in exciting new ways as the Smithonian Institute announced plans to replicate and share its collection with the world using 3D printing tech and a 14-year-old boy invented an incredible LEGO printer. We also watched HP launch an all-in-one workstation that pops open for easy DIY upgrades and repairs, while Huawei unveiled a soaring Pegasus sculpture made from 3,500 smartphones. Last but not least we brought you a look at Google's new Terminator-style augmented vision goggles, and we shared a fun tutorial on geocaching with your children.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: i-oniq hybrid, spherical solar cell and an incredible LEGO printer originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D printing3dPrintingecoEmerg-E plug inEmerg-ePlugInenvironmentfossil fuelsFossilFuelsgeocachingGoogleGreenhybridi-oniqinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenMonotracernuclearsolarthisweekingreentransportationSun, 04 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple's 2012 environmental report reveals giant solar array]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/apples-2012-enviromental-report-reveals-giant-solar-array/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/apples-2012-enviromental-report-reveals-giant-solar-array/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/20/apples-2012-enviromental-report-reveals-giant-solar-array/#comments Apple data centerApple just released its 2012 environmental report, detailing all the ways it's conserving energy and working to make Mother Earth a slightly cleaner place. A highlight of that effort is clearly the company's data center in Maiden, North Carolina. The giant white-roofed server bunker will soon be home to the largest end user-owned solar array in the US -- covering 100 acres and producing 42 million kWh of electricity each year. The 20-megawatt installation is only the beginning too. A five-megawatt fuel cell facility will soon be going up alongside it. Hit up the source link for the full report, but be forewarned, it comes only in PDF format.

Apple's 2012 environmental report reveals giant solar array originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledata centerdata centersDataCenterDataCentersenvironmentenvironmental reportEnvironmentalReportfuel cellsFuelCellsnorth carolinaNorthCarolinasolar energySolarEnergyMon, 20 Feb 2012 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia establishes stance on conflict minerals in formal policy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/04/nokia-conflict-minerals-policy/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/04/nokia-conflict-minerals-policy/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/04/nokia-conflict-minerals-policy/#comments
Recent weeks have seen a swell of interest in corporate responsibility, particularly with regard to technology manufacturing and supply chains. Last month, Apple CEO Tim Cook affirmed his company's commitment to ethically and environmentally sound practices, evoking sentiments that were echoed today in a similar announcement from Nokia. Seizing the opportunity to establish some goodwill among socially conscious consumers, the Finnish manufacturer has just released a policy outlining its philosophy on conflict minerals -- metals like gold, tungsten and tin that have played a direct role in fueling civil violence and unrest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the document (linked below), Nokia acknowledged that it doesn't play a direct role in obtaining these materials, but emphasized its strict traceability requirements. All suppliers, Nokia says, must provide detailed information on the sourcing of its metals, going back to the smelter phase, at a minimum, and even to the mine itself, if necessary. The company also highlighted its adherence to guidelines established by the EICC-GeSI Extractives Work Group, which both Apple and Intel have already joined. Granted, it's impossible for a single company to wipe out civil strife and human rights abuses in one fell swoop, but with this codified approach, Nokia hopes to at least "increase transparency, ensure responsible procurement by our suppliers and sub-suppliers, and drive positive change."

Nokia establishes stance on conflict minerals in formal policy originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africaapplecivil warCivilWarconflictconflict mineralsConflictMineralscorporate responsibilityCorporateResponsibilitydemocratic republic of congoDemocraticRepublicOfCongoDRCEICC-GeSI Extractives Work GroupEicc-gesiExtractivesWorkGroupenvironmentespoogoldhuman rightsHumanRightsintelmetalsminingnokiapolicypoliticspublic policyPublicPolicysocial responsibilitySocialResponsibilitytraceabilitytungstenwarSat, 04 Feb 2012 03:43:00 EST<![CDATA[WTO ruling revives debate over China's rare earths trade]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/wto-ruling-revives-debate-over-chinas-rare-earths-trade/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/wto-ruling-revives-debate-over-chinas-rare-earths-trade/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/wto-ruling-revives-debate-over-chinas-rare-earths-trade/#comments
China suffered another setback at the WTO yesterday, thanks to a ruling that could spell trouble for its controversial rare earths industry. In a decision issued Monday, a WTO panel determined that the Chinese government has been acting in violation of international trade rules, due to export restrictions on a number of raw materials. These restrictions, the panel said, allowed Beijing to inflate global market prices, while giving an advantage to domestic producers. As a result, China will likely have to adjust its trade policies to comply with WTO regulations. In a statement, the country's Ministry of Commerce said it "deeply regrets" the decision, but confirmed that the People's Republic will adhere to it. This week's ruling applies to materials like bauxite, coke, magnesium, manganese and zinc, but, most notably, does not apply to rare earths -- a group of 17 elements critical to the production of tablets, smartphones and myriad other gadgets.

China has maintained a rather tight grip over the world's rare earths market, thanks to a slew of export controls, quotas and government-erected barriers to entry. The country has come under intense international pressure in recent years, with the US, EU and Mexico filing complaints with the WTO, arguing that China's price-inflating restrictions violate international trade agreements. Beijing, for its part, has long maintained that its export controls are designed to minimize the environmental impact of rare earth mining, while meeting the country's surging domestic demand. It's an argument that's come up a lot during this debate but one that the WTO, on Monday, deemed illegitimate, stating that China has thus far been "unable to demonstrate" the environmental benefits of its policies. The decision won't have any immediate bearing on these policies, but some observers are hopeful that it may be a sign of things to come. Michael Silver, CEO of rare earth processor American Elements, told Reuters that the ruling "confirms the existence of the two-tiered price structure that has caused so much concern," with EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht adding that the decision should force China to remove restrictions on both the aforementioned raw materials and rare earths, alike. Others, however, aren't so optimistic, pointing out that, with a full 95 percent of the rare earths market under its aegis, China could realistically afford to ignore any decisions handed down from the WTO in the future.

WTO ruling revives debate over China's rare earths trade originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinadecisionenvironmentEUexport controlsExportControlsexportsfree tradeFreeTradeMexicorare earth mineralsrare earthsRareEarthMineralsRareEarthsraw materialsRawMaterialsrestrictionrulingtradeUSworld trade organizationWorldTradeOrganizationwtoTue, 31 Jan 2012 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Magnetic soap could make your next oil spill less oily]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/magnetic-soap-could-make-your-next-oil-spill-less-oily/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/magnetic-soap-could-make-your-next-oil-spill-less-oily/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/magnetic-soap-could-make-your-next-oil-spill-less-oily/#comments
Instead of spending millions upon millions to clean up the next oil spill, why don't we just all pitch in and buy some soap? That's basically what researchers at the University of Bristol are proposing, with a new kind of soap that's apparently like no other. This soap, you see, is magnetic, which means it could be easily removed from water without leaving behind any hazardous chemicals -- a potentially major selling point for cleanup crews and environmentalists alike. To create it, the team collected water with chlorine and bromine ions, and used it to dissolve iron particles, creating a metallic core. They proceeded to test their creation by placing the soapy particles within a test tube, underneath layers of water and oil. Much to their delight, they were able to remove the particles with only a magnet, ostensibly providing a template upon which disaster response crews may build.

Magnetic soap could make your next oil spill less oily originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bromidecleanupdisasterenvironmenthazardironmagnetmagnetic soapMagneticSoapmetaloiloil spillOilSpillpaperresearchsoapukuniversity of bristolUniversityOfBristolTue, 24 Jan 2012 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists produce stronger T-rays, bring Tricorders closer to reality]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/scientists-produce-stronger-t-rays-bring-tricorders-closer-to-r/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/scientists-produce-stronger-t-rays-bring-tricorders-closer-to-r/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/scientists-produce-stronger-t-rays-bring-tricorders-closer-to-r/#comments
A group of scientists from Imperial College London and Singapore's Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE) have developed a new technique that could have far reaching impacts for Star Trek fans everywhere. It all involves something known as Terahertz (THz), or T-rays: electromagnetic rays that have already been used in full-body airport scanners and have the potential to be used across a much broader range of medical and environmental applications. Because every molecule can be uniquely identified within the THz range, these T-rays can be used to pick up on cancerous cells and other biological matter, perhaps even within a Tricorder-like scanner. Now, Imperial College's Stefan Maier and his team of scientists say they've found a way to create a stronger beam of T-rays, using so-called "nano-antennas" to generate an amplified THz field. In fact, this field can produce about 100 times more power than most other THz sources, which could allow for sharper imaging devices. "T-rays promise to revolutionize medical scanning to make it faster and more convenient, potentially relieving patients from the inconvenience of complicated diagnostic procedures and the stress of waiting for accurate results," Maier explained. "Thanks to modern nanotechnology and nanofabrication, we have made a real breakthrough in the generation of T-rays that takes us a step closer to these new scanning devices." For more details, check out the links below.

Scientists produce stronger T-rays, bring Tricorders closer to reality originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beamcancerenvironmenthealthimperial collegeimperial college londonImperialCollegeImperialCollegeLondonmedicalmedical scannerMedicalScannermedicinenanotechnologypowerresearchscannerstar trekStarTrekt-rayterahertzterahertz imagingTerahertzImagingthzMon, 23 Jan 2012 05:22:00 EST<![CDATA[European Union retailers to be required to accept e-waste without charge, says Parliament]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/european-union-retailers-required-to-accept-e-waste-without-fees/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/european-union-retailers-required-to-accept-e-waste-without-fees/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/european-union-retailers-required-to-accept-e-waste-without-fees/#comments Not sure what to do with your old, outdated electronics? If you live within the European Union, getting rid of your e-waste may soon be as easy as dropping by the local electronics shop. In an effort to increase electronic waste collection from four kilograms per capita to 20, the European Parliament has approved plans that would require electronic retailers with a retail space of 400 square meters or larger to accept e-waste for disposal, free of charge. The new rules will be implemented over the next seven years, and are part of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive -- a measure that also aims to limit illegal e-waste exports to developing countries. Between keeping your house uncluttered with old gadgets and keeping developing nations clean, what's not to like?

European Union retailers to be required to accept e-waste without charge, says Parliament originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delle-wasteenvironmentEuropean ParliamentEuropean UnionEuropeanParliamentEuropeanUnionewasteFinancegadget recyclingGadgetRecyclingrecyclingSciTechtoxic wasteToxicWasteWaste Electrical and Electronic Equipment DirectiveWasteElectricalAndElectronicEquipmentDirectiveSun, 22 Jan 2012 07:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple wants to be responsible, progress report details changes to worker conditions and environmental practices]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/apple-attempts-to-go-responsible-progress-report-details-change/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/apple-attempts-to-go-responsible-progress-report-details-change/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/13/apple-attempts-to-go-responsible-progress-report-details-change/#comments Apple had a few issues with its suppliers this year and has published its annual Supplier Responsibility Progress Report today. The company has apparently schooled more than a million "supply chain employees" on rights and health and safety, while it has also began a specific environmental compliance program for some of its suppliers in China, having spotted several violations last year -- which it's now working on. Perhaps more interestingly, this notes the first time that Apple has revealed all 156 of its suppliers in full. The report (unsurprisingly) reads like exercise in backslapping, but if you're into that sort of thing, you can check the whole report at the source.

Update: MacRumors has published Tim Cook's team-wide email on the matter.

Apple wants to be responsible, progress report details changes to worker conditions and environmental practices originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleChinaenvironmentSupplier Responsibility Progress reportSupplierResponsibilityProgressReportwork conditionsWorkConditionsworkersFri, 13 Jan 2012 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Has James Bond gone green? Bulletproof electric roadster in the works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/has-james-bond-gone-green-bulletproof-electric-roadster-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/has-james-bond-gone-green-bulletproof-electric-roadster-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/has-james-bond-gone-green-bulletproof-electric-roadster-in-the/#comments

Warding off assassins while saving the environment just became a cake walk with the Jo-Mojo, an upcoming creation by Lativian armored vehicle company DARTZ. This two seat convertible roadster brandishes an 80 horsepower electric engine capable of pushing zero to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph -- yet most of its "mojo" is outside the hood. Custom seating, color-changing chameleon paint finish, bulletproof tires, and others are just a few of the many "drooling" features. The sunroof is given a task with flexible solar panels built-in, good for juicing up the batteries while idle or on the go. Aimed to hit the market at the end of Q2 2012, its estimated price tag starts at 30,000 euros (~ $40,000), within range of most low-end luxury automobiles. Check past the break for a video slideshow of this snazzy piece of metal by Gray Designs, DARTZ's partner in the venture.

Continue reading Has James Bond gone green? Bulletproof electric roadster in the works

Has James Bond gone green? Bulletproof electric roadster in the works originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative energyAlternativeEnergyarmoredArmored carArmoredCarautomobileautomobilesbatteriesbatterybulletproofcarcarsConvertibleDARTZDartz KombatDartzKombatenvironmentenvironment protectionEnvironmentProtectionevGray DesignsGrayDesignsgreenhorsepowerjames bondJamesBondjo-mojomphprotectionroadstersolarsolar panelsolar panelssolar powersolar poweredSolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowerSolarPoweredsunrooftransportationvehiclevideoThu, 08 Dec 2011 05:28:00 EST<![CDATA[EVDrive offers first batch of e-Moto-CRF250R bikes for $13,700]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/evdrive-offers-first-batch-of-e-moto-crf250r-bikes-for-13-700/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/evdrive-offers-first-batch-of-e-moto-crf250r-bikes-for-13-700/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/evdrive-offers-first-batch-of-e-moto-crf250r-bikes-for-13-700/#comments Motocross riders, go electric and the wildlife will love you for it. In fact, equip yourselves with second-generation e-Moto-CRF250R from EVDrive and human onlookers will love you too, because the 80 horsepower Honda electric motor is plenty sufficient for catching high altitudes and hurtling between trees at 70MPH. It should run for up to 110 minutes on a charge and perform much like its fossil-fueled equivalent, while also being less expensive to run and a heck of a lot quieter. How much quieter? Click past the break for a video of the previous e-Moto in action -- and honestly, there's no need to adjust your volume dial.

Continue reading EVDrive offers first batch of e-Moto-CRF250R bikes for $13,700

EVDrive offers first batch of e-Moto-CRF250R bikes for $13,700 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 02:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-bikee-motoe-moto-crf250relectricelectric engineelectric motorElectricEngineElectricMotorenvironmentenvironmentalEVEVDriveEVDrive e-moto-crf250rEvdriveE-moto-crf250rgreenhorsepowermotocrossmotorbikemotorbikesmotorcyclemotorcycle racingMotorcycleRacingmotorcyclesoff-roadvideowildlifeFri, 02 Dec 2011 02:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspectral camera captures 1,000 colors, identifies contaminants]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/hyperspectral-camera-captures-1-000-colors-identifies-contamine/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/hyperspectral-camera-captures-1-000-colors-identifies-contamine/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/hyperspectral-camera-captures-1-000-colors-identifies-contamine/#comments Putting our dinky point-and-shoots to shame, researchers at Tel Aviv University have created a hyperspectral HSR camera that detects more than 1,000 colors -- something that can be used to pinpoint contaminants or hazards in the environment. According to lead scientist Professor Ben-Dor, different elements produce different colors, helping researchers identify hazards or contaminated soil without being forced to bring samples back to the lab. It works as such: the sensor analyzes sunlight as it bounces off an object, which it then interprets. The shooter is so sensitive that it can read samples anywhere from 0.4 inches to 500 miles away, meaning it could operate from weather balloons or even one of these -- rendering Joseph and his amazing technicolor dreamcoat most jealous. Check out the full PR after the break.

Continue reading Hyperspectral camera captures 1,000 colors, identifies contaminants

Hyperspectral camera captures 1,000 colors, identifies contaminants originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben-DorcameracontaminantsenvironmentenvironmentalHSRhyperspectralhyperspectral cameraHyperspectralCamerascienceTel Aviv UniversityTelAvivUniversityThu, 03 Nov 2011 15:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Ray solar charger adheres to your window, basks in the sunlight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/insert-coin-ray-solar-charger-adheres-to-your-window-basks-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/insert-coin-ray-solar-charger-adheres-to-your-window-basks-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/insert-coin-ray-solar-charger-adheres-to-your-window-basks-in/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

The most frustrating products are the ones that have such simple ideas, you're upset that it hasn't been done before -- or that you weren't the one that came up with it. No idea is so simple as the brilliant Ray solar charger. A mobile phone juicer that comes with a kickstand and built-in suction cup so that it's nearly always pointed right at the sun. If you think that sounds like simple madness or genius, click past the break to find out why it could be worth your investment.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Ray solar charger adheres to your window, basks in the sunlight

Insert Coin: Ray solar charger adheres to your window, basks in the sunlight originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-friendlyEnvironmentGreenInsert CoinInsertCoinPhone ChargerPhoneChargerPhotovoltaic CellPhotovoltaicCellPVRayRay Solar ChargerRaySolarChargerSolarSolar ChargerSolar PowerSolarChargerSolarPowerWindshieldWindshield MountWindshieldMountSat, 29 Oct 2011 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[GE's new factory will push out one solar panel every ten seconds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/ges-new-factory-will-push-out-one-solar-panel-every-ten-seconds/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/ges-new-factory-will-push-out-one-solar-panel-every-ten-seconds/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/ges-new-factory-will-push-out-one-solar-panel-every-ten-seconds/#comments
General Electric is sending its troops to Colorado to conquer the thin film solar panel business. The 38th state will play home to a new facility that leverages the supermodel-thin panel know-how of PrimeStar Solar, which GE scooped up back in 2008. In traditional solar panels, sand is refined into silicon ingots, sliced wafers of which are then placed in a frame. The thin film process eliminates this, sandwiching layers of semiconductors between panes of glass -- saving time, money and, most importantly, energy. The factory will open ahead of schedule in 2012 and is reportedly capable of producing a new panel every ten seconds. You can learn all of that and more in the press release we've got for you after the break.

Continue reading GE's new factory will push out one solar panel every ten seconds

GE's new factory will push out one solar panel every ten seconds originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ColoradoDanielle MerfeldDanielleMerfeldEcoEco-FriendlyEnergyEnvironmentFinanceGEGeneral ElectricGeneral Electric EnergyGeneral Electric SolarGeneralElectricGeneralElectricEnergyGeneralElectricSolarGreenNew YorkPhotovoltaicPowerPrimeStar SolarPrimestarSolarPVSci/TechSolar PanelSolar PanelsSolar PowerSolarPanelSolarPanelsSolarPowerThin FilmThin Film SolarThin-FilmThin-Film SolarThin-filmSolarThinFilmThinFilmSolarvideoMon, 17 Oct 2011 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Exoconcept EXO all-electric jet ski: perfect for lake recon, your next indie action film]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/exoconcept-exo-all-electric-jet-ski-perfect-for-lake-recon-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/exoconcept-exo-all-electric-jet-ski-perfect-for-lake-recon-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/12/exoconcept-exo-all-electric-jet-ski-perfect-for-lake-recon-you/#comments Part jet ski, part electric water scooter, 100 percent awesome. That's the Exoconcept Exo -- a new sea-born vehicle for stealth missions and the occasional run-in with Mr. Living Vicariously. The craft comes in a few flavors with shells made of high-end carbon fiber or ABS plastic, and engines ranging from 3.5-7kWh. Capable of cruising the open waters at a max speed of 15-27 knots (17-31 mph), it doesn't really rival the thrust of some of its non-electric cousins, but it's certainly fast and quiet enough for some reconnoitering or good old fashioned family fun. With four racks of Li Fe PO4 high capacity batteries, the motor powers a water jet turbine drive system to cut through waves without any sound pollution. Unfortunately, zipping around on electric power doesn't come cheap -- at €7,290 (or $9,939), it'll probably only appeal to those who also own the lake needed to enjoy it on. But hey, at least you've got until Q1 2012 to save up!

Continue reading Exoconcept EXO all-electric jet ski: perfect for lake recon, your next indie action film

Exoconcept EXO all-electric jet ski: perfect for lake recon, your next indie action film originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 22:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesenvironmentexoconcept exoExoconceptExogreenjetskijetskiskWhLi Fe PO4 batteriesLiFePo4BatteriesreconspieswaterMon, 12 Sep 2011 22:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Electrified bacteria army kills uranium, gives Captain Planet a run for his money]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/electrified-bacteria-army-kills-uranium-gives-captain-planet-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/electrified-bacteria-army-kills-uranium-gives-captain-planet-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/electrified-bacteria-army-kills-uranium-gives-captain-planet-a/#comments A certain type of "hairy" bacteria may just be the answer to cleaning up radioactive spills. Scientists at the University of Southern California found that under certain circumstances, Geobacter sulfurreducens could make metals like uranium less soluble -- essentially turning the metal into hard droplets rather than being absorbed. Researchers discovered that by lowering the bacteria's temperature, it caused hair-like pili to extend, which enveloped the poison uranium and ultimately reduced it through long-range electron transfer. The breakthrough could help deplete sources of uranium or other radioactive isotopes where bacteria normally can't survive -- like from the Fukushima nuclear plant that devastated Japan earlier this year. Scientists believe they've only scratched the surface with this development and are optimistic about the future of bacteria "electromicrobiology," which we can only guess grew in popularity after this '80s classic hit the airwaves (video after the break).

Continue reading Electrified bacteria army kills uranium, gives Captain Planet a run for his money

Electrified bacteria army kills uranium, gives Captain Planet a run for his money originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bacteriaclean upCleanUpenvironmentGeobacter sulfurreducensGeobacterSulfurreducenslong-range electron transferLong-rangeElectronTransfermicroelectrobiologypiliradioactiveUniversity of Southern California Los AngelesUniversityOfSouthernCaliforniaLosAngelesuraniumUSCvideoYuri GorbyYuriGorbyThu, 08 Sep 2011 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple puts PCs on free recycling party list, opens doors to iPads, iPhones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/apple-puts-pcs-on-free-recycling-party-list-opens-doors-to-ipad/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/apple-puts-pcs-on-free-recycling-party-list-opens-doors-to-ipad/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/apple-puts-pcs-on-free-recycling-party-list-opens-doors-to-ipad/#comments After being forced to pay off the door man to get into Apple's electronics recycling party for years now, PCs are finally getting in for free -- VIP style. Apple has revised its Reuse and Recycling Program and opened the gates to sheep from another shepherd's flock. The new rules are quite a departure from past protocol, which charged PC users 30 bones to recycle non-Apple computers and displays -- unless of course they agreed to purchase a Mac, in which case Apple would kindly do it for free. As part of the restructured program, ripe old iPads and iPhones are now eligible for Apple's exchange program as well, where you'll get a gift card if your device is actually worth anything. The company still recycles old iPods and mobile phones (regardless of manufacturer) for free, and offers 10% off a new iPod if you hand over an old one. With the revised plan it's safe to say the folks at Apple ditched the program's old theme song, "It's Not Easy Being Green," and are instead spinning a new track. Sparkly silver jacket not included.

Continue reading Apple puts PCs on free recycling party list, opens doors to iPads, iPhones

Apple puts PCs on free recycling party list, opens doors to iPads, iPhones originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleeco friendlyeco-friendlyEcoFriendlyelectronicelectronicsenvironmentenvironmentalEnvironmentallyFriendlygadgetsgreenipadiphoneiPodjunkmacpcrecyclerecyclingreducereuseWed, 10 Aug 2011 00:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Waste Landscape installation reminds us why CDs weren't that great (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/waste-landscape-installation-reminds-us-why-cds-werent-that-gre/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/waste-landscape-installation-reminds-us-why-cds-werent-that-gre/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/waste-landscape-installation-reminds-us-why-cds-werent-that-gre/#comments
For most people, the term "waste landscape" may evoke images of desolate industrial zones, toxic sewage leaks, or Phish concerts. But architect Clémence Eliard and artist Elise Morin took a slightly more digital approach to the concept, constructing their undulating Waste Landscape installation from 65,000 unsold (and unwanted) CDs. To do this, the pair sewed the discs together by hand, before blanketing them over dune-like wire constructions inside the Centquatre -- a Parisian art space that, appropriately enough, was once a funeral home. The result is an array of sloping, shimmering hills that emerge from the floor like disco ball pimples, creating a space that the artists not-so subtly compare to an oil spill. It's a pretty sobering reminder of the environmental fingerprint archaic technologies can leave behind, but Eliard and Morin's story has a happy ending. When the exhibit comes to a close, every single CD will be recycled into polycarbonate. Spin past the break to see a video that'll make you wanna give your iPod a hug.

Continue reading Waste Landscape installation reminds us why CDs weren't that great (video)

Waste Landscape installation reminds us why CDs weren't that great (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart installationArtInstallationcdcentquatreclemence eliardClemenceEliardelise morinEliseMorinenvironmentfranceinstallationlandscapemusicoil spillOilSpillparissculpturevideowasteWaste LandscapeWasteLandscapeThu, 04 Aug 2011 20:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Suzuki unveils Every electric van, bead curtains sold separately]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/suzuki-unveils-every-electric-van-bead-curtains-sold-separately/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/suzuki-unveils-every-electric-van-bead-curtains-sold-separately/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/suzuki-unveils-every-electric-van-bead-curtains-sold-separately/#commentsJust when you thought the electric van couldn't get any more stylish, Suzuki went out and raised the bar even higher, with its Every van -- a prototype plug-in that has state felony written all over it. Following in the wake of Mitsubishi's Minicab i-MiEV, this love bus is powered by a lithium-ion battery that can be fully juiced in about five hours, with a cruising range of up to 62 miles. It's also a good 400 pounds heavier than its gas-powered predecessor, though, as Integrity Exports explains, its cargo capacity remains fixed at around 550 pounds. For now, Suzuki is sending out just 13 vehicles to a handful of Japanese dealerships, in the hopes of testing the market before a potential widespread launch. No word yet on when that could happen, but Japan's soccer moms and airport shuttle drivers must be licking their chops.

Suzuki unveils Every electric van, bead curtains sold separately originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcleanElectric carelectric vanelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVanElectricVehicleenvironmentevEveryevery vanEveryVangreenjapanLithium Ionlithium ion batteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteryprototyperangesuzukitransportuglyvanMon, 18 Jul 2011 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volts invade NYC police fleet, give cops all new ways to taze bros]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/chevy-volts-invade-nyc-police-fleet-give-cops-all-new-ways-to-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/chevy-volts-invade-nyc-police-fleet-give-cops-all-new-ways-to-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/chevy-volts-invade-nyc-police-fleet-give-cops-all-new-ways-to-t/#comments
New York's boys in blue will soon be able to creep up on evildoers with even more subtlety, thanks to some new electrified vehicles the city unveiled yesterday. As part of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's environmentally-friendly PlaNYC initiative, 70 new EVs have been added to the city's fleet of public cars, in the hopes of lowering emissions and creating a "greener, greater New York City." Joining the force are ten Ford Transit Connect cargo vans, ten Navi-star E-star trucks and a full 50 Chevy Volts -- some of which will be used as NYPD squad cars. These newcomers will be shared among nine different departments, joining 360 other city plug-ins already purring their way across the five boroughs. Bloomberg is also working toward adding EVs to New York's army of 13,000 taxis -- which we're totally cool with, as long as they're not minivans. Zip past the break for a rather Homeric press release.

Continue reading Chevy Volts invade NYC police fleet, give cops all new ways to taze bros

Chevy Volts invade NYC police fleet, give cops all new ways to taze bros originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 01:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloombergchevroletchevychevy voltChevyVoltcitye-starelectric vehicleElectricVehicleemissionsenvironmentEVfordford transit connectFordTransitConnectmichael bloombergMichaelBloombergmike bloombergMikeBloombergnavi-starnavi-star e-starNavi-starE-starnew yorknew york citynew york police departmentNewYorkNewYorkCityNewYorkPoliceDepartmentNYCnyfdNYPDPlaNYCplug-inpolicepolice carPoliceCartransit connectTransitConnecttransportvoltFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:03:00 EST<![CDATA[NTT DoCoMo to power cellphone towers with renewable energy, tenderness]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/11/ntt-docomo-to-power-cellphone-towers-with-renewable-energy-tend/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/11/ntt-docomo-to-power-cellphone-towers-with-renewable-energy-tend/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/11/ntt-docomo-to-power-cellphone-towers-with-renewable-energy-tend/#comments When they're not busy carving handsets out of teak (or rockin' out with their pupils), the folks over at NTT DoCoMo apparently focus their efforts on saving the environment. Next year, the Japanese provider will begin outfitting its expansive cellphone tower network with ten "green transmission stations," to be powered by an artillery of biofuels, wind and solar energy. This kind of infrastructure would obviously bring a smile to the face of ol' Mama Nature, but it could also help mitigate the adverse effects of power outages and elfin insurgents. And for that, we should all be grateful.

NTT DoCoMo to power cellphone towers with renewable energy, tenderness originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biofuelcell phone towercellphone towerCellphoneTowerDoCoMoelectricityenergyenvironmentenvironmentalismgreenjapannetworknttntt docomoNttDocomorenewable energyRenewableEnergysolar energysolar powerSolarEnergySolarPowertowerwindwind energyWindEnergyMon, 11 Jul 2011 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer's AVIC-ZHO9-MEV, the first satnav for hypermilers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/pioneers-avic-zho9-mev-the-first-satnav-for-hypermilers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/pioneers-avic-zho9-mev-the-first-satnav-for-hypermilers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/pioneers-avic-zho9-mev-the-first-satnav-for-hypermilers/#comments
Are you the switched-on environmental type who plans your Prius journey around how much air resistance you're likely to encounter on the way to Whole Foods? Rejoice! Now you can stop worrying and learn to love your car stereo if you purchase Pioneer's newest Navigation Unit designed specifically for electric vehicles, the AVIC-ZHO9-MEV. Hiding behind that easy to remember (and decidedly catchy) name is a device that estimates your car's remaining battery, power consumption and opportunities for energy regeneration, planning your routes accordingly. Expect to be detouring down lots of short hills with slow moving traffic at the bottom, or maybe it'll just give up on the whole idea of roads and demanding you switch to train tracks. It also has the usual things you'd expect from such a unit, so you can play DVDs on the 7-inch display, receive digital TV and radio and play MP3, WMA and AAC discs. The unit drops in Japan in 'late July' with an RRP of 246,750¥ -- around $3,038.11.

Pioneer's AVIC-ZHO9-MEV, the first satnav for hypermilers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avic-zho9-mevcarEco NavigationEcoNavigationelectricelectric carelectric car satnavElectricCarElectricCarSatnavEnvironmentEnvironmental GPSEnvironmentalGpsGPSGPS NavigationGpsNavigationinfotainmentinfotainment systemInfotainmentSystemnavigationPioneerPioneer AVIC-ZH09-MEVPioneerAvic-zh09-mevsat navsat-navsatellitesatellite navigationSatelliteNavigationsatnavFri, 08 Jul 2011 08:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Coca-Cola's green billboard consumes carbon dioxide like so much sugary soda]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/coca-colas-green-billboard-consumes-carbon-dioxide-like-so-much/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/coca-colas-green-billboard-consumes-carbon-dioxide-like-so-much/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/coca-colas-green-billboard-consumes-carbon-dioxide-like-so-much/#comments Sure, we've seen plenty of cool billboard features over the years, from facial recognition to interactive Pong games, but few have managed the dual feat of promoting a popular soft drink and making the world a slightly greener place. All of that fuzzy area you see surrounding the silhouette of the Coke bottle in the above 60 by 60 foot billboard is made up of a number of Fukien tea plants, each of which can soak up around 13 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, for a combined total of 46,800 pounds. The plants are housed in pots made from recycled Coke bottles and are watered via a drip irrigation system. The billboard is the product of a partnership between Coca-Cola Philippines and the World Wildlife Fund. No word on when it might be greening up more skylines around the world. Press release below.

Continue reading Coca-Cola's green billboard consumes carbon dioxide like so much sugary soda

Coca-Cola's green billboard consumes carbon dioxide like so much sugary soda originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisementbillboardbillboardscoca-colacokeenvironmentgreenPhilippinesplantspollutionrecyclingworld wildlife fundWorldWildlifeFundwwfWed, 06 Jul 2011 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft shuts down utility monitoring service, proves you can't go Hohm again]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/microsoft-shuts-down-utility-monitoring-service-proves-you-can/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/microsoft-shuts-down-utility-monitoring-service-proves-you-can/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/microsoft-shuts-down-utility-monitoring-service-proves-you-can/#comments Is there anything more tragic than a broken Hohm? Microsoft announced this week that it will be shuttering its utility monitoring service at the close of May 2012, citing a lack of consumer adoption. The news comes a week after Google announced the closing of its competing PowerMeter service. Despite the shutdown, however, Microsoft assures us all that it's still in the business of developing energy solutions for cities with a wide-ranging list of partners. Hohm itself will continue to operate through the end of May 2012, at which point its users will be rendered Hohmless.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Microsoft shuts down utility monitoring service, proves you can't go Hohm again originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analyticscloseclosingdiscontinuedenergy savingEnergySavingenvironmentgreenhohmhomehome energy monitoringhome monitoringHomeEnergyMonitoringHomeMonitoringmicrosoftmicrosoft hohmMicrosoftHohmThu, 30 Jun 2011 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung Replenish Review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/samsung-replenish-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/samsung-replenish-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/samsung-replenish-review/#comments There's something about a green phone that really tugs at the heartstrings, but over the years Sprint has been determined to yank as hard on those cords as possible. Recyclable handsets like the Samsung Restore, Samsung Reclaim, and LG Remarq took store shelves by storm, and the latest environmentally-friendly kid on the block is here to encourage reducing, reusing, and renewing -- your contract, that is. The Samsung Replenish puts its own twist on the eco-phone trend by adding in Android. This is by no means the first time such a smartphone has come to market, but it's the first one to knock on Sprint's door. So, how did the Replenish do for making a genuine first impression? Head south after the break to find out.

Continue reading Samsung Replenish Review

Samsung Replenish Review originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gandroidandroid 2.2Android2.2eco-friendlyenvironmentenvironmentally friendlyEnvironmentallyFriendlygooglegreenlglg remarqLgRemarqmobileqvgareclaimrecyclable materialsRecyclableMaterialsrecycleremarqreplenishrestorereviewsamsungsamsung reclaimsamsung replenishsamsung restoreSamsungReclaimSamsungReplenishSamsungRestoresmartphonesolar chargersolar powersolar poweredSolarChargerSolarPowerSolarPoweredsprintsprint idSprintIdFri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Smug alert: Google says it has largest corporate EV charging network in the US (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/smug-alert-google-says-it-has-largest-ev-charging-network-in-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/smug-alert-google-says-it-has-largest-ev-charging-network-in-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/smug-alert-google-says-it-has-largest-ev-charging-network-in-th/#comments
Things are just getting greener and greener over at Google. Yesterday, the company triumphantly declared that its Mountain View campus now boasts the largest corporate EV charging network in the US, with some 200 chargers currently in place, plus an extra 250 that are on the way. It's all part of El Goog's RechargeIt sustainability initiative, launched in 2007, which has also given rise to the Gfleet -- a set of company-owned plug-ins made available for employees. Now that Google has purchased some extra Chevy Volts and Nissan Leafs, this Gfleet will eventually expand to include a total of 30 EVs, which explains the expansion of its ChargePoint Network. The ultimate goal is to have charging stations at five percent of Mountain View's parking spaces, all of which will be searchable on Google Maps, and available for employees to use for free. The company hopes this initiative will encourage more people to purchase EVs, and estimates that it'll eventually save a total of 5,400 tonnes of CO2 per year -- the equivalent to removing about 2,000 cars from the road. Head past the break for a video on the program, or hit up the source link if you'd like to help Google pat itself on the back.

Continue reading Smug alert: Google says it has largest corporate EV charging network in the US (video)

Smug alert: Google says it has largest corporate EV charging network in the US (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 07:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autocampuscarchargepointchargepoint networkChargepointNetworkchargerchargingcharging stationChargingStationchevy voltChevyVoltCO2corporateelectric vehicleElectricVehicleemissionsemployeeenvironmentEnvironmentallyFriendlyEVev infrastructureEvInfrastructureexpansiongfleetgooglegoogle campusGoogleCampusgreeninitiativemountain viewMountainViewnissan leafNissanLeafrechargeitvideoFri, 10 Jun 2011 07:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan trying out roadside service vehicles capable of charging EVs, soothing range anxiety]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/japan-trying-out-roadside-service-vehicles-capable-of-charging-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/japan-trying-out-roadside-service-vehicles-capable-of-charging-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/japan-trying-out-roadside-service-vehicles-capable-of-charging-e/#comments No matter how hard Nissan tries to convince folks that driving an EV won't leave them stranded on the side of the road gagging for electricity, that pesky range anxiety issue continues to permeate discussions about electric cars. So, what else to do but strap an EV charger on roadside service vehicles? The Japan Automobile Federation is trialing just such a scheme, with a Nissan-built prototype service truck helping to top up electrified transporters that have ended up bereft of juice at an inopportune moment. The trial's gotten its start in Kanagawa Prefecture this week, which, incidentally, happens to be using a Nissan Leaf as its governor's official car. So, even if you do figure out a way to use up your Leaf's entire battery, you get the comfort of knowing you're riding like a governor and that the good men in orange jumpsuits will be there to take care of your problemo.

Continue reading Japan trying out roadside service vehicles capable of charging EVs, soothing range anxiety

Japan trying out roadside service vehicles capable of charging EVs, soothing range anxiety originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarschargerchargingelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvironmentevev chargerEvChargerjapanjapan automobile federationJapanAutomobileFederationnissanprototyperange anxietyRangeAnxietyrechargingtesttransporttransportationtrialvehicleThu, 09 Jun 2011 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Europe's first solar powered train tunnel goes live on Belgian high-speed line (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/europes-first-solar-powered-train-tunnel-goes-live-on-belgian-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/europes-first-solar-powered-train-tunnel-goes-live-on-belgian-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/europes-first-solar-powered-train-tunnel-goes-live-on-belgian-h/#comments The train ride from Paris to Amsterdam may not be the most scenic of European railway routes, but it's the only one capable of harnessing the awesome power of the Sun -- for two miles, at least. Yesterday, engineers in Belgium officially switched on Europe's first solar-powered train tunnel, spanning a 2.1-mile stretch of the rail line connecting the City of Lights to Mokum. The installation's 16,000 solar panels will be used to provide 50 percent of the energy needed to power nearby Antwerp Central Station and to provide extra juice for both high-speed and traditional trains. Originally developed to help protect travelers from falling trees in an ancient forest, the project is expected to produce up to 3.3MWh 3,300 megawatts hours per year, while decreasing annual CO2 emissions by about 2,400 tons. Speed past the break for some aerial footage of the artery, along with a brief PR from Enfinity -- the Belgian renewable energy company that helped bring it to life.

Update: According to the AFP, the tunnel will produce 3,300 megawatts hours per year.

Continue reading Europe's first solar powered train tunnel goes live on Belgian high-speed line (video)

Europe's first solar powered train tunnel goes live on Belgian high-speed line (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amsterdamantwerpbelgiumCO2co2 emissionsCo2EmissionsenergyenfinityenvironmentEnvironmentallyFriendlyeuropefrancegreennetherlandsparisprojectrailwayrenewablerenewable energyRenewableEnergysolarsolar panelsolar powerSolarPanelSolarPowersuntraintransporttravelvideoTue, 07 Jun 2011 17:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Google opening seawater-cooled data center, finally glad it applied for that Wave trademark (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/google-opening-seawater-cooled-data-center-finally-glad-it-appl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/google-opening-seawater-cooled-data-center-finally-glad-it-appl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/google-opening-seawater-cooled-data-center-finally-glad-it-appl/#comments
Google raised a few eyebrows when it purchased a Finnish paper mill back in 2009 -- what, the world, wondered, would the king of cloud services want with reams of tree guts? Space for a data center, of course -- and a seawater-cooled one at that. Google's Joe Kava told GigaOm that, when it launches in the fall, the center's temperature will be regulated by a quarter-mile of seawater tunnels inherited from the building's past tenants. One of the hardest parts of getting the system up and running has apparently been figuring out a way to clean corrosion from salt water without taking the system offline. Google's also working to limit the center's impact on the surrounding ecosystem, making sure that the water itself is cooled down before being pumped back out. Between this and those wind-powered data centers, it looks like Captain Planet's always got a cushy IT gig at Google to fall back on, should he ever fall on hard times.

Google opening seawater-cooled data center, finally glad it applied for that Wave trademark (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 May 2011 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coolingdatadata centerDataCenterenvironmentfinlandgooglegoogle data centerGoogleDataCentergreenoceanpaper millPaperMillsalt waterSaltWatervideowaterTue, 24 May 2011 19:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Electric Land Rover makes it way easier to sneak up on cowardly lions]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/electric-land-rover-makes-it-way-easier-to-sneak-up-on-cowardly/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/electric-land-rover-makes-it-way-easier-to-sneak-up-on-cowardly/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/electric-land-rover-makes-it-way-easier-to-sneak-up-on-cowardly/#comments It's likely impossible to go on safari in Africa without having any environmental impact at all -- particularly on the ones where shooting things is involved -- but this is certainly a step in the right direction. Battery manufacturer Axeon has teamed up with Jaguar Land Rover South Africa to offer animal watchers / hunters a greener way to get around, outfitting the Defender 110 High Capacity Pick Up with a battery pack where the diesel engine usually goes. The new power source cuts out the car's emissions and silences the engine, making it easier to sneak up on wildlife. This concept vehicle (not Rover's first attempt to green things up) is debuting at the INDABA trade show this week in South Africa, so now would be the time to alert any antelope in your life.

Continue reading Electric Land Rover makes it way easier to sneak up on cowardly lions

Electric Land Rover makes it way easier to sneak up on cowardly lions originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 May 2011 22:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africabatterybattery electricBatteryElectricbevelectricelectric vehicleElectricVehicleenvironmentEVfcevfuel cellFuelCellgreenjaguarland roverLandRoverrange roverRangeRoversafarisouth africaSouthAfricaMon, 09 May 2011 22:06:00 EST<![CDATA[CE-Oh no he didn't!: BMW exec says electric vehicles 'won't work,' but would love to sell you one anyway]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/ce-oh-no-he-didnt-bmw-exec-says-electric-vehicles-wont-work/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/ce-oh-no-he-didnt-bmw-exec-says-electric-vehicles-wont-work/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/ce-oh-no-he-didnt-bmw-exec-says-electric-vehicles-wont-work/#comments Jim O'Donnell, CEO and chairman of BMW North America, recently sat down with the Detroit News to discuss the ActiveE -- an electric version of BMW's 1 Series coupe, available for lease in the US this fall. Most CEOs would've probably used the opportunity to wax PR poetic about their company's bold, forward-looking ethos, because that's what CEOs do. O'Donnell, however, used the occasion to let us in on a dirty little secret: EVs don't actually work. According to O'Donnell's undoubtedly robust calculations, EVs won't work for "at least 90-percent" of the human population, at current battery ranges. The situation is so dire, in fact, that the US government shouldn't even bother wasting its $7,500 tax credits on frivolous things like innovation, national security and clean air.
"I believe in a free economy. I think we should abolish all tax credits. What they are doing is putting a bet on technology, which is not appropriate. As a taxpayer, I am not sure this is the right way to go."
O'Donnell went on to say he's "far more optimistic" about diesel's chances of increasing BMW's US market share -- because, you know, it's not like the oil industry gets any tax breaks, or anything. And it's not like diverting some money away from oil subsidies and putting it toward EV technology would create the "level playing field" that O'Donnell and his company so desperately need. No siree, the US energy market is just as pure and fair as it's always been -- and it certainly doesn't deserve to be corrupted by an EV tax credit pestilence. That said, O'Donnell would still really appreciate it if we buy the battery-powered i3 when it launches in 2013. Who knows? He may even throw in a free bridge, too.

CE-Oh no he didn't!: BMW exec says electric vehicles 'won't work,' but would love to sell you one anyway originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activeeActiveE ConceptActiveeConceptautobatterybig oilBigOilbmwBMW 1 Seriesbmw ceobmw north americaBmw1SeriesBmwCeoBmwNorthAmericacarceoCeOhNoCeOhNoHeDidntDetroitdieselElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvironmentenvironmentalEVgreeni3jim odonnellJimOdonnellleaseoilpoliticssubsidiesTax CreditTaxCredittaxesTue, 26 Apr 2011 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[ChargePoint lets you reserve electric charging stations, cuts down on alternative fueling fistfights]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/chargepoint-lets-you-reserve-electric-charging-stations-cuts-do/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/chargepoint-lets-you-reserve-electric-charging-stations-cuts-do/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/chargepoint-lets-you-reserve-electric-charging-stations-cuts-do/#comments One day in the future, we'll all drive around in electric cars and gas pumps will be replaced by clean charging stations. Also, free ice cream. Until then, get in line -- or better yet, reserve a spot online courtesy of ChargePoint's online database of alternative fueling stations. The Coulomb Technologies-run site displays charging stations on a Google Map, with a colored pin letting you know in real-time whether someone is currently topping off their Tesla. If you're the type with foresight -- you did buy an electric car, after all -- you can schedule some quality time with an outlet on the site using your ChargePass card. The cost of charging is determined by the station's manager, and appointments can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance. The site has some serious competition on the EV charging map, courtesy of the newly launched GeoEVSE, a collaboration between US Department of Energy, Google, and 80 other companies. Maybe the new reservations feature will help ChargePoint win the race to your heart.

Continue reading ChargePoint lets you reserve electric charging stations, cuts down on alternative fueling fistfights

ChargePoint lets you reserve electric charging stations, cuts down on alternative fueling fistfights originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 21:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car chargingCarChargingchargepointchargingcharging stationChargingStationcoloumbcoloumb technologiesColoumbTechnologiesElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvironmentgooglegoogle mapsGoogleMapsGreenMon, 25 Apr 2011 21:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Sprint plays the green card, drops $10 data surcharge on Froyo-based Samsung Replenish]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/sprint-plays-the-green-card-drops-10-data-surcharge-on-froyo-b/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/sprint-plays-the-green-card-drops-10-data-surcharge-on-froyo-b/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/sprint-plays-the-green-card-drops-10-data-surcharge-on-froyo-b/#comments Sprint's been playing the all-encompassing Eco-Friendly card for some time now, and it looks as if last year's Restore (now available on Virgin Mobile USA for $79.99 off-contract) is gaining an ultra-green sibling. Samsung's newly unveiled Replenish feels a bit like an Android 2.2-powered, somewhat matured BlackJack, boasting a 2.8-inch QVGA display, 2 megapixel camera / camcorder, inbuilt WiFi / GPS, a microSD card slot, an optional solar door charging accessory and a trio of color options (black, blue and -- our personal favorite -- "raspberry pink"). Curious about eco-cred? It'll ship May 8th for $49.99 (on a two-year contract) with fully recyclable packaging and a casing that includes 34.6 percent post-consumer recycled plastic content. Oh, and there's a postage-paid envelope to recycle your old phone, too. Folks opting to throw Ma Earth a bone by picking one up must activate it on an Everything Data plan, but the carrier will be waiving the $10 monthly premium data add-on charge to -- get this -- "make it easier for customers to make eco-friendly buying decisions." Translation: you'll buy whatever's cheapest. Full release is after the break.

Gallery: Samsung Replenish on Sprint

Continue reading Sprint plays the green card, drops $10 data surcharge on Froyo-based Samsung Replenish

Sprint plays the green card, drops $10 data surcharge on Froyo-based Samsung Replenish originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.2Android2.2breaking newscdmaEco-Friendlyenvironmentenvironmentalfroyogooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidgreenrecyclablerecycleReplenishRestoreSamsungSamsung MobileSamsung Replenishsamsung RestoreSamsungMobileSamsungReplenishSamsungRestoresmartphonesprintSprint IDSprintIdvirgin mobilevirgin mobile usaVirginMobileVirginMobileUsaFri, 15 Apr 2011 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: Mercury]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/visualized-mercury/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/visualized-mercury/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/visualized-mercury/#comments It may look like a spotty, monochromatic water melon, but we're taking NASA's word on this one -- the image above is the very first taken from an orbiting spacecraft of our solar system's innermost planet. Mercury has been snapped by NASA's MESSENGER probe, which is currently preparing itself to start on its elliptical trajectory around the planet and commence collecting data about it in earnest. Hit the links below to learn more about this bold exploration project.

Visualized: Mercury originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astronomyenvironmentexplorationimageimagingmercurymessengernasaorbitorbiterphotographphotographypictureplanetproberesearchsciencesolar systemSolarSystemspacespace explorationspacecraftSpaceExplorationvisualizedTue, 29 Mar 2011 20:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Earth Hour 2011 starts at 8:30PM your local time, wants you to switch off for a bit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/26/earth-hour-2011-starts-at-8-30pm-your-local-time-wants-you-to-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/26/earth-hour-2011-starts-at-8-30pm-your-local-time-wants-you-to-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/26/earth-hour-2011-starts-at-8-30pm-your-local-time-wants-you-to-s/#comments In what has become an annual tradition now, the WWF's Earth Hour is presently sweeping across the globe, getting people to switch off non-essential lights and appliances for a sixty-minute kindness to Ma Earth and her finite energy resources. All you'll need to do to participate is power down the old World of Warcraft questing station, turn the TV off, and maybe take a walk outside so your lights don't have to be on, starting at 8:30PM tonight. Half the world's already done its bit and it's now coming around to those in the UK, Portugal and Western African countries to do the same. Will you be part of it?

Continue reading Earth Hour 2011 starts at 8:30PM your local time, wants you to switch off for a bit

Earth Hour 2011 starts at 8:30PM your local time, wants you to switch off for a bit originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011activismblackoutearth hourearth hour 2011EarthHourEarthHour2011energyenergy consumptionEnergyConsumptionenvironmentenvironmentalismenvironmentally friendlyEnvironmentallyFriendlyfutureglobal warmingGlobalWarminggreennaturepowerpreservationvideoworld wildlife fundWorldWildlifeFundwwfSat, 26 Mar 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[NASA's MESSENGER begins orbit around Mercury, will start beaming back science early next month]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/18/nasas-messenger-begins-orbit-around-mercury-will-start-beaming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/18/nasas-messenger-begins-orbit-around-mercury-will-start-beaming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/18/nasas-messenger-begins-orbit-around-mercury-will-start-beaming/#comments Mercury, the innermost planet of our humble little solar system, is getting itself an orbital friend. The MESSENGER space probe (known as MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging to his nearest and dearest) is concluding a six-year sojourn through the dark void of space with an elliptical orbit around the tiny and otherwise inhospitable planet. Systems are about to get turned on and fully checked next week, before the data-gathering phase kicks off in earnest on April 4th. Science, isn't it beautiful?

NASA's MESSENGER begins orbit around Mercury, will start beaming back science early next month originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astronomychemistryenvironmentexplorationgeochemistrygeologyinterplanetarymappingmercurymessengernasanasa messengerNasaMessengerorbitorbiterplanetplanetsproberesearchsatellitesciencesolar systemSolarSystemspacespace explorationspacecraftSpaceExplorationFri, 18 Mar 2011 09:41:00 EST