Greenpeace: Apple iPhone Bad for Your Health
Michael Gartenberg, an analyst at Jupiter Research, said he was not surprised by the threat of a Center for Environmental Health lawsuit against Apple following a Greenpeace report that identified several toxic chemicals used in the iPhone, but noted that he doesn’t think the Greenpeace report will keep consumers from buying an iPhone.
A Greenpeace report could spark yet another lawsuit against Apple. On Monday, The Center for Environmental Health gave Apple 60 days notice that it might file suit against it after tests Greenpeace commissioned revealed several hazardous chemicals in both the external and internal components of the iPhone.
According to a Greenpeace report entitled “Missed Call: The iPhone’s Hazardous Chemicals,” the iPhone contains several dangerous chemicals, including phthalates in the vinyl plastic earphone wiring at levels that are prohibited in young children’s toys in San Francisco and in the European Union.
This is the third time that Greenpeace has tested an Apple product since 2006. Similar analyses of a MacBook Pro and an iPod Nano revealed the presence of phthalates and brominated flame retardants (BFRs).
However, the latest study marks Greenpeace’s first test of an Apple product since CEO Steve Jobs made a public commitment in May to make a “Greener Apple.” Apple specifically pledged to phase out all polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics and BFRs by the end of 2008.
Apple did not respond to requests seeking comment on the potential suit or the Greenpeace allegations.
Read the full article here.
