Sustainable tech products can help reduce energy consumption and electronic waste without requiring a complete lifestyle overhaul. From refurbished smartphones to smart power strips, these eight options offer practical ways to make greener choices.
How we choose
Each product in this roundup targets a specific area—whether it's extending a device's life, using recycled materials, or cutting standby power. None of them claim to be perfect, but they represent realistic steps anyone can take.
Our 8 Picks
Apple iPhone 13, 128GB, Blue - Unlocked (Renewed)
What it is
A refurbished Apple iPhone 13 (128GB, unlocked) sold through Amazon Renewed, providing a used smartphone that has been tested and certified.
Why it's worth it
Best for reducing e-waste without compromising on daily performance. It offers the same core features as a new iPhone 13—same processor, same display—at a lower cost, and prevents a functional device from being discarded. For someone who wants to keep using a capable smartphone while reducing waste, this is a practical, cost-effective choice.
Best for
Eco-conscious reader
Caveat
Battery health and cosmetic condition can vary compared to a brand-new unit, so the exact experience depends on the specific renewal grade.
Hiluckey Solar Charger 25000mAh, Outdoor USB C Portable Power Bank with 4 Solar Panels, 3A Fast Charge External Battery Pack with 3 USB Outputs Compatible with Smartphones, Tablets
What it is
A 25,000mAh power bank with fold-out solar panels for backup charging away from wall outlets.
Why it's worth it
Best for off-grid charging where wall outlets aren't available. The large battery capacity powers multiple devices via three USB outputs, and the solar panels provide a slow top-up when exposed to direct sunlight. It's a practical backup for camping or outages.
Best for
Campers and travelers who want solar charging
Caveat
Solar charging is significantly slower than wall charging and requires strong direct sunlight for meaningful input.
Pela | Phone Case Compatible with iPhone 15 | Limited Edition | Supports Wireless Charging | Cute Eco Friendly | Porcelain
What it is
A plant-based phone case for iPhone 15, designed as an alternative to standard plastic cases.
Why it's worth it
Best for someone who wants to reduce plastic use around their phone. The case is made from plant-based materials and is compostable in industrial facilities (per brand claims). It offers drop protection comparable to typical cases while reducing reliance on petroleum-based plastics.
Best for
Readers trying to reduce pl
Caveat
Compostability requires specific industrial conditions, not backyard composting.
acer Aspire Vero AV14-52P-55N4 Intel Evo Green PC | 14 inch FHD IPS 100% sRGB Display | Intel Core i5-1335U | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | 8GB LPDDR4X | 512GB Gen 4 SSD | Killer Wi-Fi 6E | PCR Materials
What it is
A laptop built with post-consumer recycled plastic in the chassis and recyclable packaging.
Why it's worth it
Best for someone seeking a laptop with a lower environmental footprint during production. It offers sufficient performance for common tasks like web browsing, document editing, and streaming with an Intel Core i5-1335U processor and 8GB RAM. The PCR materials reduce virgin plastic use.
Best for
Readers who want greener hardware without drifting into niche territory
Caveat
8GB RAM is adequate for basic multitasking; heavy multitasking or video editing may require the higher-spec version.
House of Marley Positive Vibration Frequency: Over-Ear Wireless Headphones with Microphone, Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity, 34 Hours of Playtime and Quick Charge Technology, Signature Black
What it is
Over-ear wireless headphones that use recycled plastics, bamboo, and silicone in construction.
Why it's worth it
Best for someone who wants wireless headphones made with recycled materials. They offer 34 hours of playtime and a built-in microphone, suitable for commuting and calls. The design uses materials that reduce virgin plastic usage.
Best for
Listeners who want eco-conscious, sustainable audio
Caveat
Noise cancellation is passive (not active), so they may not suit users who need strong ambient noise blocking.
CanaKit Raspberry Pi 5 Starter Kit PRO - Turbine Black 128GB Edition 4GB RAM
What it is
A starter kit for the Raspberry Pi 5, a low-cost modular computer that encourages experimentation and reuse.
Why it's worth it
Best for learning programming, building DIY projects, or creating custom electronics. The Pi 5 is low-power and repairable, promoting a mindset of understanding rather than discarding. This kit includes essential accessories to start building right away.
Best for
Tinkerers who want a modular, low-power computer
Caveat
Not a replacement for a standard desktop; it requires setup and is best for hobbyists, educators, or tinkerers.
Veolia SUPPLY-196 Small Electronics Recycling Box
What it is
A prepaid recycling box for collecting and shipping small electronics to a certified recycler.
Why it's worth it
Best for decluttering small e-waste like cables, chargers, and old phones. The box provides a simple, responsible disposal route, turning clutter into action. It helps ensure materials are processed safely rather than ending up in landfills.
Best for
Handling the devices already sitting in a drawer
Caveat
Box has a weight limit and is only for small electronics; larger items like monitors or printers require separate recycling options.
Kasa Smart Plug Mini with Energy Monitoring, Smart Home Wi-Fi Outlet Works with Alexa, Google Home and IFTTT, Wi-Fi Simple Setup, No Hub Required KP115 White
What it is
A smart plug that tracks real-time energy consumption and allows remote control of connected devices.
Why it's worth it
Best for tracking and reducing home energy use. The plug provides data via app on which devices waste power, enabling informed scheduling. It works with voice assistants and doesn't require a hub, making setup straightforward.
Best for
Anyone who wants to monitor and cut device energy use
Caveat
Requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network; some users may find the app interface less polished than competitors.
How to choose
How to choose the right sustainable tech products that cut energy use and e‑waste
Takeaway
These eight products show that reducing energy use and e-waste is possible with thoughtful purchasing. Whether you choose a refurbished phone, a solar charger, or a smart plug, every small step counts.
