Most of us can’t imagine living without our technological toys; from laptops to hairdryers, we often depend on plugging in to get through the day. While gadgets make our lives more comfortable in many ways, they often wreak havoc on the natural environment. Sure, you can buy a hybrid car or install solar panels on your house, but don’t forget about the smaller tools that can be replaced by eco-friendly versions. Here are some fun innovations that have recently hit the market:

 

1. Dyson Air Multiplier: Not only does a Dyson Air Multiplier fan keep you cool, it looks cool as well. The bladeless ring gathers up 5.28 gallons of air per second and amplifies it using turbocharged technology similar to what you’d find on a jet engine. Unlike a conventional fan with blades, the Air Multiplier generates airflow that’s powerful and uninterrupted. The motor amplifies air 15 to 18 times – certainly enough incentive for homeowners to turn off their air conditioning systems. Dyson offers several different fan sizes from a 10-inch table fan to the stylish Tower Fan. And while these coolers aren’t the least expensive fans around ($299 to $499), you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the money you save on air conditioning, as well as your steadily shrinking carbon footprint. Check out these circular wonders at www.dyson.com.

 

2. Ventus SPIN: Thanks to the Ventus SPIN Eco Media Player, a little manpower puts all your music and entertainment at your fingertips. The neodymium magnets inside do most of the work for you; simply wind the SPIN for about a minute, and get 45 minutes of power on the spot. While this media player is certainly pint-sized, the folks at Ventus are anything but cheap. The SPIN features a 24-bit digital audio processor that works with state-of-the-art headphones to give you premium sound quality. You can record your own voice memos and manage all content on your computer, too. Want to charge the SPIN, but feel a little lazy? Just plug it into a USB port as you would any other MP3 player. With a maximum 55 hours of playtime, you’ll be set for the entire weekend. Find out more at www.ventusfreeenergy.com.

 

3. Bedol Water Clock: No batteries required; the Bedol Water Alarm Clock keeps time with a built-in memory chip and gets its power from the ions in water. You don’t even have to plug it in. Just fill the clock up with tap water. Daily and hourly alarms are a breeze to set, and you can depend on this ticking wonder both at home and on the go. The Bedol Water Clock also gets points for style, coming in a variety of whimsical shapes and colors. Priced at just $19 for the original Water Clock and $39 for the Alarm Clock, this gadget makes a great gift for anyone – just don’t forget to pick one out for yourself. Shop online at www.bedolwhatsnext.com.

 

Not only are the newest green gadgets environmentally responsible, they manage to be fashionable as well. From kids’ school supplies to business tools, there’s a way to go green for everyone. So, spread the news and take up the trend because eco-friendly technology is ready to make good use of your green thumb.