Apple today launched an appeal to win the hearts and minds of eco-friendly Americans. It is offering to take away their old computer and dispose the of machine in an environmentally sound manner whenever punters buy a brand new Mac. The deal applies to customers buying through its online store or retail outlets.

The scheme covers any machine, desktop or notebook, regardless of who manufactured it. It's not standard, however - customers have to opt into the programme. If they do, Apple will email them a pre-paid shipping label - the consumer has to box up the old machine.

Still, it beats leaving the kit out with the trash. Apple pledged returned machines would be recycled within the US and no hazardous material would be sent overseas. The programme applied only to customers buying in "the 48 contiguous United States" so it's bad luck if you live in Hawaii or Alaska.

Stressing its eco-credentials, Apple said it already allows consumers to drop off old computers and electronics kit at its Cupertino HQ, and offer as ten per cent discount to iPod buyers in exchange for old iPod models.

Apple has more on its green policies here. ®