HeraldNet: Ridiculous eco-invention alert!



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Eco Geek

July 14, 2008

Ridiculous eco-invention alert!

Posted at 12:01 am

Sometimes I just don’t get it.

I mean, really.

A finger toothbrush as eco-item?

Several organizations are touting a toothbrush meant to fit over the end of your index finger. No handle, less waste, they say.

Upon further investigation, I discovered that the “No-Shank Toothbrush” was not originally intended as an eco item. Instead, it’s meant for prison inmates who have found ways to hide contraband inside toothbrush handles.

I have a few thoughts about this little gem:

1. Does small really always mean eco? I can just imagine an over-zealous environmentalist discovering this and thinking, “It’s not about smarts, it’s about size! Quick! Make everything as small as possible! That’ll teach that old global warming monster!” I’m just not convinced that tiny = environmentally friendly.
2. When brushing one’s teeth with one’s finger, wouldn’t one then be forced to use more water to wash one’s hands?

In the continuum of eco items and actions, does the no-shank toothbrush even rate?

Thoughts, readers?

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