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It used to be that musicians were notorious for trashing hotel rooms. Now they’re far more likely to recycle their trash—at least in the case of singer-songwriter Jack Johnson. A former professional surfer and documentary filmmaker, he’s developed a following with four albums of mostly mellow tunes inspired by his native Hawaii (his fifth album, called Sleep Through the Static, will be released shortly).

The beach-boy vibe doesn’t mean he's old school. Make no mistake. It turns out that he’s environmentally conscious, and he’s been quite clever and forward-thinking about harmonizing these concerns with his musical career -- without being a bore.

For example, Sleep Through the Static (just released in February 2008) was recorded entirely using solar power. And when he tours he requires promoters to sign an agreement called an EnvioRider, which lays out green guidelines for his concerts (say, fueling up generators with biodiesel).

He’s also been adept at leveraging his popularity both with the public and fellow musicians. He’s established a nonprofit organization devoted to environmental education, called the Kokua Hawaii Foundation, which also supports a festival that this year features Dave Matthews.

Nor is he just a big fish in a little pond. Neil Young has invited him to his classy Bridge School Benefit, an annual non-profit charity concert heald in Mouuntain View every October. The concerts are all organized by musician Neil Young and his wife, Pegi. He’s headlining the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California. And next summer he’ll be featured at New Jersey’s All Points West festival with Radiohead.

Not bad for a former "beach bum."

Take a look at Johnson playing from his latest album -- and talking about the solar power production and more.