PC World is hoping to entice shoppers with their new ‘green’ PC, due to go on sale this autumn. Much of it will be made from recycled materials, and the company also say they will plant trees to offset the carbon produced from the manufacturing process, and advise customers on the most energy-efficient way to configure their new PC.

I’m not entirely convinced. Leaving aside any dislike for PC World as a place to shop, there’s the question of whether planting trees to offset carbon emissions really helps. Would it be better to recycle old computers ourselves and make sure we save energy as much as possible, or is this a step in the right direction? we’ll keep you updated once the product launches.

Related posts: Dell goes green | Google specs standards to save power – LOTS of power

Google employees are being given free bicycles to help reduce the environmental impact of their travel to work. The company has also installed solar panels at its HQ to provide green energy.

Although I’ll ask, I think it’s unlikely my employer will give me a bike. The story has made me think though: a lot of people spend more time at the office than at home, so what can companies do to lessen their environmental impact?

We all, I hope, know to turn off our computers when we leave and to avoid unnecessary printing, but if you or your employer would like to do more, consider switching to green suppliers.

The green electricity marketplace lists suppliers of green electricity by area, while the green stationery company offers everything from notepads and pens to computer supplies and desk accessories.

Related posts: Merdeka natural fair trade stationery | Old Money recycled currency stationery

“If countries like China don’t cut their carbon emissions drastically then it doesn’t matter what the rest of us do.”

I’m beginning to lose count of how many times I’ve heard that argument, or a variation of it. There is some truth to it, but that doesn’t make it any less disheartening to hear it used repeatedly as an excuse for inaction across Europe.

Good news from China this week then, with the announcement that plans for the world’s first carbon-neutral city have been unveiled.

The city of Dongtan will house a quarter of a million residents, and aims to provide power for all of them through solar, wind and biofuel power.

The first phase is due to be completed by 2010, and four other Chinese cities are putting similar plans into place.

Coverage of the proposed city has been positive but sceptical; we’re probably all used to hearing of grand eco-plans that never come to fruition, or fall short of the goals they are aiming for. Let’s hope that’s not the case here and that Dongtan inspires carbon-neutral cities worldwide. Apparently London Mayor Ken Livingstone has already said he would like to build a similar eco-zone along the river Thames.

Related posts: Breathing Earth: carbon and population simulation | News Roundup: Green air travel? Green China? What the heck is going on?

Carbon offsetting is one thing, but what if you want to know exactly where any trees you buy are, and get a reminder of your tree without lopping off any branches?

With TreeTwist, you can buy a tree for £20. The tree will be planted in the Caledonian forest in the North West Highlands of Scotland, and you receive a TreeTwist �” a unique, handmade piece of jewellery you can wear as a reminder of your tree. If £20 is a bit of a stretch, a tenner will get you a TreeClip and a seedling. The company acknowledge that planting trees isn’t the solution to climate change, but it is a step in the right direction.

Any orders received before 3pm are sent out the same day, so you still have time to buy your mum a TreeTwist before the weekend too.

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