CES 2008 greens up with Carbonfund.org

As far as technology shows go, they don't get much bigger than the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Everyone who's anyone in the technology world will be in Las Vegas during 7-10 January 2008, from journalists, salesmen, engineers to armies of gadget geeks -- all there to see the latest technology unveiled by hundreds of exhibitors from around the world.

It's not exactly a friend of the environment though. Just like any trade show, most of the attendees fly to the event, and the whole point of it is to encourage mass consumerism and the constant replacement of electronic gadgets for the latest and greatest version.

But this year, the organisers -- Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) -- are making an effort to be green. Firstly, they've teamed up with the Carbonfund.org to offset 20,000 tonnes of carbon emissions by investing in renewable energy, reforestation and energy efficiency schemes.

The organisers have also been making an effort to reduce emissions, not just to emit and repent. Seventy five per cent of food containers and utensils used at the event will be biodegradable, and any spare food will be donated to charity. All of the leaflets handed to attendees will be printed on recycled paper with soy ink, and only non-hazardous cleaning products will be used at the venue during the event.

"Consumer electronics are part of an energy-saving solution and improve the way we live, work and play, which gives this industry an opportunity to be a positive force for change and integral to environmental solutions," says Gary Shapiro, president of the CEA.

Eric Carlson, executive director of Carbonfund.org, adds: "I am confident that our partnership with CEA will not only help to eliminate the carbon footprint of this event, but will be part of a wider commitment to promote the understanding of the simple carbon-saving changes that people can make in their daily lives when using electronics."

Probably the most important part of the organisers efforts, as far as we're concerned, is the TechZone dedicated entirely to green gadgets. Hopefully this will encourage tech journalists and designers to take energy efficiency and sustainable design as plus points, alongside speed and features.