technology
GET IN GEAR Choose green technology to reduce your environmental impact. BY JACK GUY
VOLTBIKE BRAVO Get some exercise and cut your carbon footprint by getting around on an electric bike rather than in your car. Volt makes a variety of models aimed at people with different needs, but the Bravo is the best all-rounder. Sporty enough to eat up the asphalt but sturdy enough for off-road trails, it’s a top choice as a first electric bike. One charge should get you around 35 miles in range, and the bike can reach a top speed of 20 mph. $1,699. voltbike.com
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globaltravelerusa.com
APRIL 2020
ECOBEE SMARTTHERMOSTAT Connected home devices are becoming increasingly common, but none boast the green credentials of a smart thermostat. Ecobee recently upgraded its range with eco+ software that automatically optimizes your central heating for efficiency and cost savings. Voice activation and a simple app make for easy operation, plus it connects to air conditioners, dehumidifiers and other devices for greater accuracy in maintaining temperatures throughout your home. $249. ecobee.com
PHOTOS: © BOTANIUM, © SONY, © ECOBEE, © DJIVOLTBIKE
BOTANIUM SMART GROWERS Indoor gardening is a great way to grow your own food, improve air quality and add a touch of natural beauty to your living space. Botanium takes the hassle out of the process thanks to a smart hydroponic system that works without soil and is impossible to overwater, a great feature for those not blessed with green thumbs. You can even leave it alone for weeks while you travel, as it takes care of the plant for you. The growers work with a number of herbs and lettuce, vegetables such as tomatoes and chili peppers, and even orchids. Botanium also sells nutrient pipettes to give your indoor garden a health boost in order to grow more of your chosen produce. From $73. botanium.se
SONY DIGITAL PAPER Cut down on your paper consumption with this digital notepad. The device works with a stylus that lets you make digital notes and save them to the Digital Paper app. You can also annotate, erase and highlight PDF files, perfect for those who want to work on a project free from the distractions of being online. Easily share files between devices using the app and leave your laptop at home thanks to 16GB internal storage. Choose between the 10.3-inch and 13.3-inch screen sizes, depending on your needs. From $499.99. sony.com
