5 Eco-Friendly Gadgets for Better Living

If Americans love anything, it's gadgets. Unfortunately, that is a large reason why our landfills are as full as they are. Gadgets break or become obsolete, and batteries die. Fortunately, gadget makers are finally learning from the solar-powered calculator and moving into more eco-friendly offerings.

Speaking of the solar-powered calculator, inventors have gone in a new direction. Now there are hydro-powered calculators. These calculators run on a small amount of water. There are many on the market now, available in a variety of styles and prices. A list of the 7 best of those can be found here, complete with ordering information and how to get them for free.

This first eco-friendly gadget is perfect for school kids. Remember how your ruler would never fit in your pencil box? This Recycled Fold 'Em Up Ruler, made from 70% post-consumer recycled plastic, will. To promote a business, get your logo put on and distribute to local schools for the kids. Educators can print them with the school logo and to sell at pep rallies. Parents, you can ask the company to send you a free sample ruler.

An advance in technology that also helps with eco-friendly gadgets is the cranking LED flashlight. No more searching for batteries when the lights go out. This 6-in-1 Wind-Up Flashlight takes it further by doubling as a cell phone charger, radio, strobe light, and emergency siren. According to the website, wind it only 20 seconds for each 20 minutes of light power. The 6-in-1 version is $35, but the regular flashlight version can be purchased at your local drugstore for under $10.

Another problem when the lights go out can be the loss of your alarm clock. Why not rely on solar power rather than a battery back-up? There are many solar-powered alarm clocks available, like this $15 version from Target. Or, if you are mechanically inclined, why not try to build your own?

This next gadget is perhaps the most eco-friendly and practical. Water bottles are one of the largest offenders when it comes to landfills. Many people still don't recycle them, but use them daily. The solution is gadgets like the Fresh Water Works cartridge water filter, a counter-top device purifying 1500 gallons of water per cartridge. The first cartridge is included in the $35 for the filter, with refills available for under $20. Pair it with a reusable bottle like this one.