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Green Gadget Gifts

Green gadgets make wonderful gifts because they encompass innovative engineering and environmentally conscious concepts. Armed with eco-friendly design that saves energy and helps people's lives, these gadgets not only serve a purpose, they also benefit the earth. From personal electronics to common household items, solar-powered inventions to hydro-powered devices, green gadgets give recipients both functional tools to use and a sense of fulfillment.

  1. Solar Backpack

    • Many people put electronics in their backpacks. Whether they walk around campus or hike the mountains, having easy access to personal electronics such as cell phones and music players enables people to carry on daily activities and have access to help in case of emergency. With solar panels attached, the solar backpacks charge up your electronics while toting your belongings around, performing two functions at the same time.

    Water-Powered Clocks

    • You can buy a clock at just about any store, but few of them can be powered by water -- saltwater to be specific. Water-powered clocks use saltwater to erode the clock's electrodes, generating electricity to display the time. As of 2011, water-powered clocks range from around $10 to $40 in price, making them a frugal yet eco-friendly gadget gift.

    Dark-Sensing Nightlight

    • Unlike most nightlights that must be manually turned on at night and off in the morning, the dark-sensing nightlight automatically turns itself on by sensing darkness and turns itself off when light returns. This automation uses almost no energy while providing subtle illumination to bedrooms, hallways and passageways. Using electroluminescent technology, this eco-friendly nightlight uses only 0.18 watts of electricity to provide a soft glow that doesn't interfere with sleep. Efficient, effective and easy-to-use, the dark-sensing nightlight makes a great gadget at any household.

    Solar Cell Strap

    • When attached to your cell phone, the solar cell strap can charge your mobile device from power of the sun with its tiny solar cells. Though not as powerful as actual cell-phone chargers, you can certainly prolong your conversation if your cell phone ever runs out of juice. Easy to use, easy to store and solar-powered, this little gadget provides convenience and function.

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