Apple Enhances Recycling Program
On the eve of Earth Day, Apple said on Friday it will expand its computer recycling program for new Macintosh owners beginning in June. Customers in the U.S. who buy online or through Apple's stores would be eligible for free shipping and disposal of their old system.
Apple said it had been named a "Forward Green Leader" -- a title given to the top ten environmentally progressive companies by the Sierra Club. The computer maker has been operating the recycling program since 2001, and has recycled nearly 90 percent of the electronic equipment it has collected.
Environmental activists have criticized the Cupertino company in the past, saying the rampant popularity of the iPod is creating more electronic waste. Apple has been accused of not doing enough about it, a charge the company has vehemently denied.
"Apple is committed to supporting our customers and protecting the environment throughout the entire product life cycle, from purchase through to retirement," Apple senior marketing vice president Philip Schiller said.
Apple also took time Friday to announce that its entire line of iPods are now compliant with the new restrictions of hazardous substances set to take effect in California and Europe. Called the RoHS, the regulation is considered a standard for environmental safety.
According to Apple, most of the materials included in the law, including mercury, cadmium, chromium VI and brominated flame retardants, had been eliminated voluntarily from the company's products years ago.
Additionally, the iPod's power adapter now also meets Energy Star efficiency requirements, as well as the stricter laws of California regarding efficiency.
More on Apple's Earth-friendly policies can be found at the company's environment Web site.