Courtesy of Greenpeace
Greenpeace has released its latest Guide to Greener Electronics, and the big winners are: the Philips Econova television and new products from Acer, Wipro, and HP—all recognized for being free of PVC and brominated flame retardants (BFRs).
Greenpeace toxics campaigner Casey Harrell points out that if Philips can create a TV without these toxic chemicals, "there is now no excuse for other TV manufacturers not to follow.
Toshiba, LGE, Samsung, Dell and Lenovo, on the other hand, have no PC product lines that are PVC- and BFR-free. Greenpeace calls out Toshiba for misleading customers about its green commitments, and Microsoft for backtracking on commitments it made to remove these toxic substances.
What's wrong with these substances?
Some BFRs, used in circuit boards and plastic casings, do not break down easily and build up in the environment. Long-term exposure can lead to impaired learning and memory functions. They can also interfere with thyroid and oestrogen hormone systems and exposure in the womb has been linked to behavioral problems.
PVC is a plastic used in some electronics products and for insulation on wires and cables. Chlorinated dioxins and furans are released when PVC is produced or disposed of by incineration (or simply burning). These chemicals are highly persistent in the environment and many are toxic even in very low concentrations.
Announcing the new guide, Greenpeace writes:
Nokia and Sony Ericsson remain well ahead in 1st and 2nd place for producing products free of the most hazardous substances, including PVC/BFRs, antimony, beryllium, and phthlates. HP, Samsung and Lenovo are the biggest climbers in this edition. Samsung climbs to 5th place from 13th, despite retaining a penalty points for backtracking on its commitment to eliminate PVC and BFRs.
Get more info on different brands and the specific pros and cons to each from Greenpeace—but remember, the greenest gadget is the one you already own.
