Dismantling laptop prior to testing for toxic chemicals.
An independant Danish laboratory tested for the presence of
several toxic chemicals, including brominated flame retardants
(BFRs), polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC), and even lead, in brand
new laptops from five of the world's leading manufacturers (Acer,
Apple, Dell, HP, Sony). HP and Apple laptops contained the highest
levels of contamination.
We have been pressuring leading electronic companies to ditch
toxic chemicals in favour of safer alternatives. The laptop tests
reveal if the top companies are matching nice green words with real
action.
Chemical lies?
Results for HP revealed high levels of a number of chemicals in
its components, in particular the highest levels by far of PBDEs (a
class of Brominated Fire Retardants) including something called
decaBDE.
HP's website claims it removed decaBDE from its products years
ago.
Either HP is lying or HP needs to ask its suppliers some tough
questions. Lead was also found in the soldering.
HP has been downgraded due to these results on our
Guide to Greener Electronics. The guide ranks PC and mobile
companies on their chemical and waste policies and practices. HP
was third but has slipped to sixth position, with 4.7 out of 10,
down from 5.7.
Poison Apples
Apple has recently launched its new range of MacBooks, but what
you also get with a new MacBook is the highest level of another
type of toxic flame retardant, tetrabromobisphenol A. Apple claims
it is looking for alternatives but for now it appears to be using
far more of this toxic chemical than its competitors.
Dr. Kevin Brigden, of the Greenpeace Science Unit, was alarmed
by the results: "During the sampling process it was remarkable to
note that, whether Mac or PC, once you by-pass the sleek and cool
design of these computers, hazardous substances are a component
common to all."
Previous
Greenpeace research has revealed that the same toxic chemicals
found in these tests are polluting electronic waste (e-waste) scrap
yards in China and India. These yards are often the final polluted
resting place of computers thrown away in other countries.
Dr. Brigden visited these yards to take samples in 2005: "BFRs,
especially PDBEs, were widespread in the recycling yards and
surrounding environment in China and India where electronics
components are being scrapped. Lead was also found in many
locations, often at very high levels."
Because none of the large electronics players have a
comprehensive take-back policy for their old products many old
computers end up
dumped in Asia and recycled by hand in appalling
conditions.
Electronics is a fast moving, innovative industry that can
respond quickly to users' wishes and new trends. It's high time it
moved quickly to make greener, longer-lasting products to help
reverse the growing trend in toxic e-waste.
More info
Download the full testing report.
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