Greener Gadgets '10: Corky

Meet Corky, a wireless mouse that's made from recycled cork and plastic and doesn't require a single battery — it's powered by the motion of your hand.

Mon, Feb 22 2010 at 10:31 AM EST

Over past couple days I’ve highlighted my favorite entrants in the running for the design competition segment of this week's Greener Gadgets Conference. Although a design from India called the Go Mechanical Charger ruled when it came to online votes (6152 in total!) it’s ultimately up to a panel of judges to pick the top green gadget at the conclusion of the conference on Thursday evening.

Last week, I featured Rocco and the Automan 500 Subwoofer, two designs made from recycled-content materials that have a certain aesthetic appeal. Earlier today, I featured the Smart Grid Home Controller, a gadget with impressive technological aspects but zero aesthetic appeal (it’s looks like a cable box). If there was a special “cute contest” at Greener Gadgets this next design would certainly win it hands down: Corky.

Designed by Adele Peters, Corky is a wireless mouse perfect for the home, office, or home office that doesn’t require a single alkaline battery … it’s charged by the kinetic energy generated by the motion of your hand. This fabulous concept that saves you money and resources and takes the hassle out of recycling batteries is also made from sustainable materials: a recycled/biodegradable cork shell and recycled plastic components.

I’m not a mouse user myself — I’m a laptop boy — but I can see Corky’s endless appeal to desktop users. Have you had a chance to check out all of the 18 finalists in the Greener Gadgets Design Competition? What’s your favorite?

Images: Greener Gadgets/Adele Peters

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