I love seeing smart uses of recycled material, and the Targus line of stylish EcoSmart computer cases is a great example. Recycled polyester (made from drink bottles) is one of the success stories of recycling, taking a waste item and upcycling it into a very useable, durable and marketable fabric. Targus has taken this material and engineered a line of cases specifically designed to fit 15.6 – 17-inch laptops, available at your local London Drugs.
Targus Spruce cases also feature metal hardware that is nickel-free (good news for those sensitive to this metal) and plastic components that are recyclable. The cases are also PVC-free, which spares you from that ‘new-vinyl’ smell, and more importantly, helps reduce toxins linked with the manufacture of this polymer.
Targus has brought their considerable case-engineering experience to work on functionality as well, with all the zippered compartments, key clips and accessory space you would expect. Spiffy green interior fabric also makes it easier to dig out your black pen in a dim boardroom.
Beyond these cases though, the Targus EcoSmart Program outlines green changes throughout their company, from a commitment to using renewable office supplies, to developing degradable materials for their other lines of products. From my perspective, this is a respectable start, but lacking a little on measurement and supply-chain detail. Also, their ‘EcoSmart’ button looks a little like it’s trying to imitate a true certification label. (See Making Sense of Green Certifications) Let’s hope Targus continues down the path of sustainability with more great products, initiatives and transparency.
Overall, if you need a case, the Targus Spruce line is a good greener choice. You could be protecting more than just your computer.
