Imports are slowing as consumers and firms cut back, while the combination of a weak dollar and still-strong global growth means exports of goods and services are rising smartly.
Even those who build their own PCs and who might be expected to be in a permanent state of renewal are slowing down, said James Gorbold, editor of Custom PC.
However, despite 2 billion people worldwide already supplementing their diet with insects, consumer disgust remains a large barrier in many western countries.
Turns out, according to Daniel Cook, a historian of childhood consumerism, it was popularised as a marketing trick by clothing manufacturers in the 1930s.
Although improved efficiency in converting harvested trees into wood products may reduce harvest rates, it will stimulate demand by increasing supply and lowering prices, thereby boosting consumption.
"Most consumers are unaware they're not supposed to throw computers in the trash," said Roxanne Gould, vice president of government relations for the electronics association.