eco friendly music?

This is actually a really good question.

First off, we'd say that CDs and tapes may not be the greenest choice.

mp3 players may be a better choice, simply because they do not require the packaging and distribution of a physical CD. This process, called dematerialisation, helps reduce negative environmental impacts in the manufacture, delivery and disposal.

But that still leaves you with a very wide choice and a question regarding the materials the mp3 player itself is made of, how it is powered, and also the reputation of the company (e.g. is it socially responsible?).

When Ecomonkey doesn't have information about a specific product, or a range of products, the ratings will use information about the brand to rate products.

e.g. up until recently we gave all Apple products, including ipods a red label (poor).

What is our advice then? Avoid any red labelled mp3 players.

Gimmicky perhaps, but you could try a Verio wind up mp3 player (and if 20 minutes of music is insufficient, it comes with back up mains charger).

http://www.ecomonkey.co.uk/browse/all...

In fact we do not give any other mp3 product a green label ... yet.

Hope this helps.

Ecomonkey

PS Another thought, when you charge a device like an mp3 that uses a lithium battery, keep it topped up regularly (daily) - do not discharge completely as you will reduce battery life and do not forget to disconnect the charger from the mains.