One of the elements of new equipment (and indeed just about any boxed product) that I hate is the amount of packing and padding that goes into the product. Most of that, especially with computer and IT items is Polystyrene Foam, or Styrofoam.

It's a very good packing component, but has problems when you want to get rid of it, because it isn't biodegradable or easily recyclable (most current recycling methods rely on using comparatively toxic chemicals, which complicates the process, and reduces the effectiveness of recycling in the first place). Even when it is possible, most companies and goverment agencies concentrate on the relatively easy recycling of plastic, glass and paper/cardboard.