What Solio's makers did next: recycled laptop bags and Nano cases

If you're a Podder and regularly hang out at iLounge, you'll know all about these new eco iPod cases. For the rest of us, meet TREAD, an assortment of laptop and iPod cases made by Better Energy Systems, the outfit who brought the world the brilliant Solio solar charger. Thanks to Andy at Stuff, I've been one of the first in the UK to have a look at the range, which is on sale now. Here's what you need to know.

At first glance, there's not much to set these butch-looking cases apart from the other 200+ cases on the market: not much, until you realise they're made  from Columbian truck tyres that have already been dumped. As well as a nice spot of recycling, it means the cases feel as tough as polycarbonate plastic. I've pictured the Nano one here, but there are also versions for the 30/60GB iPod, 15" laptops and the Solio. The laptop job, below, is the most eye-catching, but have a look for yourself on Solio's site. Prices start at £10.

There's just one thing I don't get: why do the truck tyres need to be flown all the way from Columbia to be re-engineered into a gadget accessory? Here's hoping we get some local UK versions made from discarded Eddie Stobart lorry tyres.