I love technology. I love the Earth. Sometimes it can be tough to find a good marriage between the two.
GreenSmart aims to find this sweet spot with their eco-friendly accessories, including bags, laptop sleeves and more, all made from recycled materials. Can a product be truly functional – and look good – even if it’s made from recycled materials? Click through for the full review.
GreenSmart sleeves are well-made and durable. The sleeves come in a variety of colors and textures, so you’re guaranteed to find one that you love. Most models could really be used with any laptop, but a few are marketed specifically for Apple computers. The sleeves range in size from 13″, 15″, 15.4″, 16″ and 17″.
We checked out two of GreenSmart’s MacBook sleeve models: the “Numbat” and the “Saola.” Both are super thin, stylish accessories for your Mac, and both have super-soft plush linings made from 100% recycled plastic bottles.
The Saola and Numbat style sleeves zip to allow in-sleeve charging of your laptop, and are ventilated to keep your device cool. In addition, GreenSmart manufactures their sleeves out of a special “Neogreene” material – a durable, waterproof, lightweight alternative to neoprene – which consumes less energy and petroleum to manufacture, and is reusable.
GreenSmart's laptop sleeves are made from Neogreene, a durable, lightweight and environmentally-friendly material
The Numbat and Saola styles also feature a wrap-around zipper for laptop loading both ways. That is, you can slide your MacBook into the sleeve in horizontally or vertically, which is really convenient for folks on the go.
In addition to the Numbat and Saola styles, GreenSmart also manufactures sleeves in the style of “Markhor” with accessory pockets, the minimalist “Kodomo,” and “Akepa.” Personally, I’m a fan of the Saola’s texture, but there’s certainly a market for all styles.
For the gadgeteer who may be a little more rough with their devices, the Markhor comes standard with a little extra padding. No word on if it’s classified as airline friendly – that is, if TSA will allow the case to go through with a laptop in it – but the extra padding sure to help if the TSA get a little too touchy.
The Akepa and Kodomo style sleeves available for netbooks as well. In addition, GreenSmart offers an Akepa-style accessory pouch. For the true eco-friendly gadgeteer, the company also produces backpacks and messenger bags, as well as wine/water bottle sleeves.
Overall, GreenSmart’s laptop sleeves and accessories are durable and great-looking, while being great for the environment. While not all sleeves are made from 100% recycled material, GreenSmart’s Neogreene material is an excellent way to keep your tech safe while helping the planet.
For more information on GreenSmart, check out their website here. And keep reading gagagadget for your chance to win your very own GreenSmart MacBook case in just a few weeks!
