Keith Hinde.com

Reading through my copy of The Independent on boxing day, I came across a fantastic article on innovative eco-products penned by Graham Hill of Treehugger.com. The article, entitled “Inventions to save the world” highlights Graham’s favourite ‘green’ product designs of 2005, with the following innovations catching my eye:

• Magenn Power Flying Wind Turbine (pictured). In my opinion, this product is just too cool for words! Built by a Canadian company, Magenn Power, this is basically a helium-filled tethered device that rotates about a horizontal axis in response to wind, efficiently generating clean renewable electrical energy. It can be raised up to 1000ft above ground level, without need for a tower or crane. Better still, they will be producing a 4kw residential unit during 2006 that can be ordered in the spring. Depending on cost and availability, I would love to get hold of one, but wonder what my neighbours or the council will think of it! More details about the product rollout plan can be found here.
• Solio Portable Solar Charger. Promoted by Coldplay, this ingenious device allows you to charge mobile phones, iPods and PDAs using power generated via it’s 3 foldaway solar panels. Built from recycled and recyclable materials, it can charge an iPod after 5 to 7 hours of direct sunlight, with additional adapators available for mobile phones and PDA’s. More information about the Solio charger can be found here.
• Saitek Eco Multi-Charger. This will charge alkaline and zinc carbon “non-rechargeable” batteries as well as nickel cadmium (NiCd) and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargables, extending battery life up to 10 times. An LCD displays essential charging information and an integral battery analyzer will tell you how much strength is left in your batteries. More information can be found here.

Reading through my copy of The Independent on boxing day, I came across a fantastic article on innovative eco-products penned by Graham Hill of Treehugger.com. The article, entitled “Inventions to save the world” highlights Graham’s favourite ‘green’ product designs of 2005, with the following innovations catching my eye:

• Magenn Power Flying Wind Turbine (pictured). In my opinion, this product is just too cool for words! Built by a Canadian company, Magenn Power, this is basically a helium-filled tethered device that rotates about a horizontal axis in response to wind, efficiently generating clean renewable electrical energy. It can be raised up to 1000ft above ground level, without need for a tower or crane. Better still, they will be producing a 4kw residential unit during 2006 that can be ordered in the spring. Depending on cost and availability, I would love to get hold of one, but wonder what my neighbours or the council will think of it! More details about the product rollout plan can be found here.
• Solio Portable Solar Charger. Promoted by Coldplay, this ingenious device allows you to charge mobile phones, iPods and PDAs using power generated via it’s 3 foldaway solar panels. Built from recycled and recyclable materials, it can charge an iPod after 5 to 7 hours of direct sunlight, with additional adapators available for mobile phones and PDA’s. More information about the Solio charger can be found here.
• Saitek Eco Multi-Charger. This will charge alkaline and zinc carbon “non-rechargeable” batteries as well as nickel cadmium (NiCd) and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargables, extending battery life up to 10 times. An LCD displays essential charging information and an integral battery analyzer will tell you how much strength is left in your batteries. More information can be found here.