The European Union tries to force computer manufacturers to stop using toxic substances in their products. Trying to comply with EU's demands, Asus will launch the "green laptop", Asus U5.

Fujitsu Siemens and Dell also announced a while ago that they used fewer toxic materials in their computers than average PC manufacturers. EU's law of Reduction of Hazardous Substances basically involves using no or less mercury, cadmium, chromium and other toxic substances like PBBS and PBDE. Fujitsu Siemens is also fully compliant with EU's electronics recycling law.

The U5 "green" laptop made by Asus follows these standards that limit the usage of potentially toxic substances. The specifications of the laptop are: Intel Pentium M processor, 512 MB of RAM as standard, 3 USB ports, 1 FireWire port, built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support. A multi-format card reader extends the connectivity of the system. The U5 laptop sports a slim design, weights around 1.4kg and has a 12.1 inch widescreen display. It will be available in two colors: black and white.

The price of Asus U5 hasn't been announced yet, but if we judge by the "green" properties and the powerful configuration options it brings, it might be high.