Fujitsu Introduces Compostable Computer Mouse

Fujitsu has developed the world's first biodegradable computer mouse.

The Fujitsu Mouse M440 ECO is made from Arboform, a thermoplastic made from lignin, and Biograde, a wood cellulose-based material.

"It's the little things that add up-we're continuing to prove that it's possible to eliminate the use of non-renewable sources from the IT lifecycle," says Garry Sales, product marketing manager, Client Products, at Fujitsu UK & Ireland. "By choosing this mouse, environmentally-conscious businesses can feel good that they are helping reduce CO2 emissions without sacrificing durability or comfort-and without having to pay any extra."

Arboform, made by a German company called Tecnaro, is a composite that combines lignin, a pulp industry byproduct, with natural fibers and natural additives. Tecnaro describes Arboform as a "liquid wood" that can be injection molded.

Biograde is a wood cellulose-based material made by another German company, FKuR, that combines cellulose with acetates to make bio-based plastic.

Fujitsu says there is no sacrifice in quality with the Eco model, which includes a scroll wheel and a 1000 dpi optical sensor. The renewable materials have more elasticity and a better feel than hard plastics that are typically used, according to Fujitsu.

The Mouse M440 ECO is being sold in the UK for £11 ($17.46).

Last year Fujitso introduced a keyboard (KBPC PX ECO) manufactured in part from renewable materials. The keyboard hand rest is 100 percent wood-based material (also lignin).