Environment

HP has won a Wal-Mart design award for removing almost all the packaging from a laptop computer and replacing it with a protective bag, which can subsequently be used to transport the computer.

HP said the new format for the Pavilion dv6929 would conserve fuel and reduces carbon emissions by removing one out of every four trucks previously needed to deliver the computers to Wal-Mart and Sam's Club stores across the US.

Customers will also benefit from being able to take their computer home without needing to dispose of any cardboard, foam or plastic packaging. The bag represents a 97% reduction in packaging.

The dv6929 is exclusively available in 1,700 Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Club outlets across the US for around $800 (£450) and will be displayed on shelf only in the bag.

The US retailer is also offering customers the opportunity to recycle their old PC free of charge.

Wal-Mart Home Entertainment merchandise manager Alex Cook said: "This effort is an extension of our ongoing commitment to provide our shoppers with the best eco-friendly product offerings."

Wal-Mart's Home Entertainment Design Challenge was open to all suppliers of consumer electronics products, which had to meet three criteria of great design, product innovation that reduces environmental impact, and packaging design that facilitates reuse and recycling.