Apple blasted for toxic waste spewed by iDevice suppliers
'It's not easy being green,' Cupertino replies
Posted in Energy, 1st September 2011 16:45 GMT
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Apple has come under blistering criticism after Chinese environmentalists accused Cupertino's Chinese partners of discharging toxic metals when manufacturing iPhones, iPads, and other must-have products.
In a 46-page report issued Wednesday, The Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs in Beijing said it documented illegal pollution coming from dozens of suspected Apple suppliers throughout China, according to news reports. The suppliers frequently fail to properly dispose of hazardous waste, it claimed.
“Apple has made this commitment that it's a green company,” Ma Jun, the director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs told The New York Times. “So how do you fulfill your commitment if you don't consider you have responsibility in your suppliers' pollution?”
Apple spokesman Steve Dowling told the NYT Apple representatives aggressively monitor factories in its supply chain with regular audits.
“Apple is committed to driving the highest standards of social responsibility throughout our supply chain,” he said.
More from the Associated Press and China Daily is here and here. ®
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