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Information Technology News Apple iPhone hazardous chemicals make greenies sick
Information Technology News Apple iPhone hazardous chemicals make greenies sick | Apple iPhone hazardous chemicals make greenies sick |
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| by Stan Beer | |
| Tuesday, 16 October 2007 | |
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Greenpeace tests detected the rogue chemicals in the iPhone antenna and the plastic coating of earphone cables. According to Greenpeace scientist Dr David Santillo, two of the phthalate plasticisers found at high levels in the headphone cable are banned from use in toys and childcare articles in Europe because of their long-recognized ability to interfere with sexual development in mammals. In addition to identifying the hazardous chemicals in iPhone, the Greenpeace report is especialling scathing in its criticism of Apple saying that contrary to the company's claim of being an environmental leader, it is behind other cellphone manufacturers, including Nokia, Motorola and Sony Ericsson in environmental issues. According to Greenpeace, Nokia is totally PVC free, Motorola and Sony Ericsson have products on the market with BFR free components, and all three manufacturers have identified further toxic chemicals that they intend to remove voluntarily. What will be particularly grating for Apple, however, is the singling out iPhone's non-removable battery by Greenpeace as an environmental problem. According to Greenpeace, the iPhone's non-removable battery adds to the burden of recycling or disposal by making separation difficult. Apple has previously been criticised for not enabling users to remove and replace their own iPhone batteries as is the case with other cellphones. However, this is the first time it has been identified as a green issue. The result could present a potential design dilemma for Apple. Apple was also criticised for not having a global take-back recycling policy for its iPhones unlike Nokia and Sony Ericsson. The report, which can be acccessed from the Greenpeace page here , poses a particularly sticky problem for Apple which has been trying to establish its green credentials. In order to satisfy the conclusions of the report and get a green tick, Apple may be required to redesign its newest sensation and implement some new recycling practices. Meanwhile, the supposedly green Apple is looking decidedly red faced.
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