HP recycled bag wins Wal-Mart packaging challenge

In this file photo an employee walks past a Hewlett-Packard logo during the second day of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Telecom World 2006 in Hong Kong December 5, 2006. A Hewlett-Packard notebook computer that's packaged in a recycled bag rather than a box has won a challenge by retailer Wal-Mart Stores Inc for less wasteful packaging.

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - A Hewlett-Packard Co notebook computer that's packaged in a recycled bag rather than a box has won a challenge by retailer Wal-Mart Stores Inc for less wasteful packaging.

HP's Pavilion dv6929, which Wal-Mart and Sam's Club stores are selling for $798, was singled out for a design that reduces packaging by 97 percent and requires a fourth fewer trucks to deliver to stores, given its smaller size when packaged, Wal-Mart said in a statement.

Wal-Mart's Home Entertainment Design Challenge judged consumer electronics products in three criteria -- design, product innovation that reduces environmental impact, and packaging design that reduces waste and reduces the use of toxic materials.

Because of its size as the world's largest retailer, Wal-Mart is considered one of the few retailers with enough clout to directly change global energy consumption.

The company has set a long-term goal of using only renewable energy and creating zero waste. It has challenged its suppliers to cut back on packaging and boost energy efficiency in products.

(Reporting by Alexandria Sage; editing by Jeffrey Benkoe)