Greenpeace has chosen to “tweak” its eight edition of the Guide to Greener Electronics by adding new criteria. The newest version of the guide now examines energy efficiency as well as chemical and e-waste criteria.
In the most current edition, only two companies score over 5 points 10. The previous version allocated more than six points to 12 of the 18 ranked. In general, companies received higher point scores on chemicals policies and lower point scores on energy and greenhouse gas policies.
Sony and Sony Ericsson were the only companies that garnered more than 5 points; about 50% of the companies scored between 4-5 points. Microsoft and Nintendo remain in the last two positions with 2.2 and .8 points, respectively.
The most recent guide also altered some of the previous chemical and e-waste criteria, by combining the timeline requirements for the removal of PVC and brominated flame retardants (BFRs). In Greenpeace’s mind, chemical practices carry more weight than recycling practices and criteria were added for phasing out other toxic chemicals such as beryllium and phthalates. It also reviews the amount of recycled plastic companies use in their products.
Apple still receives kudos and high marks for removing PVC and BFRs from its products. Taking it a step farther, the company has just announced that it will forgo plastics and Styrofoam for the iPhone 3G shipping containers - its paper trays will be made from potato starch.
For more information: greenpeace.org
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