You don’t often think of audio/video cables when it comes to green electronics. But most cables are sheathed with PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is a big enviro-nasty.

So a new company called Torrent is making available HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) and component cables that are free of harmful substances such as PVC, halogen, phthalate, and lead, all without compromising performance, safety or quality, says Torrent CEO and cofounder Craig Palli.

I got a look at these cables at the recent CES in Las Vegas, and they appear high-grade. Without using PVC, the cables are stiffer than most, but can easily be bent to make connections and won’t kink.

The HDMI cable also has a magnet on its head to improve the pull force needed to disconnect an HDMI cable. (One problem with HDMI connectors is how easily some become disconnected.) The head can also pull forward for optimal connectivity. And a small LED lights when there is an optimal connection.

Torrent’s component cables feature a LeverLoc to make connections easier.

Torrent will offer a range of HDMI and component cables, from an entry level of $30 to pro-grade of $200. They will be shipping in three to four months.

Steven Castle - Contributing Writer

Steven Castle is Electronic House's managing editor. he has been writing about consumer electronics, homes and energy efficiency topics for two decades. He is also the co-founder of GreenTech Advocates.