Two products from notable brands earned my admiration as worthy of publishing here (courtesy of trendwatching.com March 2009 edition). First is the third generation of the venerable Toyota Prius which "will offer even better mileage ratings, enhanced performance, and innovative design features. It will be quieter, roomier, and equipped with advanced standard and available features such as a moonroof with solar panels, four driving modes, Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) and steering wheel touch controls that display on the instrument panel." This is one another blow to the collapsing Detroit car industry which is one reason why the gas-guzzling American cars should be killed.

Second is the world’s first solar-powered and full touchscreen phone from Samsung dubbed as the Blue Earth. By charging with the solar panel located on the back of the phone, users can generate enough electronic power to call anytime anywhere. Blue Earth is made from recycled plastic called PCM, which is extracted from water bottles, helping to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions in the manufacturing process. The device, including charger, is free from harmful substances such as Brominated Flame Retardants, Beryllium and Phthalate.