The idea of self-destructing DVDs didn't exactly pan out the first time. Environmentalists railed against it and consumers just yawned. But that's not stopping Staples and Flexplay this time around.

Today comes news that the office supply chain (?!) will soon start carrying Flexplay DVDs, the very same that become unwatchable after 48 hours, and will price them in rental territory ($5 give or take). However, they're now encouraging would-be users to recycle.

Yeah, right...

Staples, I admire you for your cell and printer cartridge recycling programs, but stick to your strengths and leave the DVD rental business to Netflix.

Flexplay, just stop. As much as you try to play up the recycling angle, it's disposable by its very nature. And you're banking on people's laziness (don't return that DVD, just recycle it), which is not a trait that's common to most of the entreprenuers, small business owners and DIYers that I have seen frequent Staples. Thirdly, you're gonna get steamrolled by digital distribution.

Lastly, it's wasteful in every regard. For that, Flexplay joins this gem in our Hall of Shame.

[via Engadget]