$249 uber-Green Computer from Zonbu

Zonbu claims their new green computer received the highest certification possible from the Green Electronics Council's EPEAT tool and consumes an average of just 15W. They offer a free end-of-life take-back service.

Starting at just $249, and loaded with a Linux-based OS, plus open-source software like Mozilla Firefox and OpenOffice, Zonbu's VIA C7-based PC offers online backup and automatic update features. Optional monthly subscription plans increase online storage beyond the free 2 GB, and include a $150 hardware rebate.

Aimed at personal rather than business or institutional users, Zonbu's low pricing, small eco-footprint and low power needs may find acceptance in NGO applications and help it succeed where other similar low-cost efforts have failed in the past.