HP wins Wal-Mart challenge to reduce packaging

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.

A Hewlett-Packard Co (HPQ.N) notebook computer that's packaged in a recycled bag rather than a box has won a challenge by retailer Wal-Mart Stores Inc (WMT.N) 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.