Here are a few interesting and newsworthy links from the outer reaches of the green Web…

• Remember the report that circulated not too long ago stating that Google could save a ton of energy by switching the background color of the Google search page from white to black? Well if you were wondering, Google has released information disputing the report. But not so fast — it’s not a closed case as there are others who still believe it would save energy… at least with CRT monitors.
• If you’re a PC gamer or just a geek who likes PC hardware, you know that power consumption is a huge issue, especially with video cards. With each new card, there are usually new power requirements that often require a power supply upgrade. Processors too can be a power drain. For a good look at the common power consumption issues that PC enthusiasts face and ways to improve efficiency, check out this article at Extreme Tech. Via EcoGeek.
• Solar, water, and wind are the most underutilized energy sources on Earth… hopefully that’ll change in a big way. Speaking of big, check out this massive magnetic levitation wind turbine that the designers say could produce 1 gigawatt of power, which is enough energy to run 750,000 homes. Via EcoGeek.
• Worried about Bisphenol A (BPA) and not quite sure which plastics are the safest? Check out this thorough product report on plastic containers from National Geographic. It provides a solid breakdown of common plastics and recommendations for use. Via Sierra Club Compass.
• Last week Target announced a biodegradable gift card. This week they’re staying in the green news with an effort to reduce excess packaging, including the dreaded and totally unnecessary PVC clamshell stuff. This is geat to see… hopefully other retailers make the same efforts.