It was December of aught seven that we first heard about Asus’ admirable efforts to make a green (beige) bamboo laptop. Then there were more, and it was good.

But it looks like somewhere along the line, the designers and engineers decided that the high-efficiency insides, cardboard lining, recycled plastic, and paintless finish had to go, leaving just the bamboo shell as a testimony to Asus’ dedication to the environment — all for the low, low price of two thousand dollars. For shame, Asus. And you’ve been doing so good!