E-Readers Versus Old Fashioned Books -- Which Is Greener?

[NewsCaster]

A relatively new phenomenon is the E-Reader, be it Kindle, iPad, or a number of other new competitors coming into the marketplace. When you think about it, these devices would seem to be more environmentally friendly than your typical paper and cardboard book, even a paperback. Should we be buying our loved ones e-readers or traditional books this holiday season?

There is a certain tactile value to "real" books, just feeling the paper, turning the pages. I find that I miss this when using an e-reader. But on the surface, the e-reader would seem to be much more green. In fact, my colleague "Mr. Green" at Sierra Magazine recently explored this dilemma and came to a surprising conclusion, which I will reveal momentarily.

E-Readers Versus Old Fashioned Books -- Which Is Greener?