Apple on Friday announced an iPod recycling program. Customers can bring in old iPods that they no longer want to any of Apple’s retail stores in the United States for free disposal —. What’s more, they earn a 10 percent discount on a purchase of a new iPod that day.
Apple calls the iPod disposal “environmentally friendly,” and notes that iPods received for recycling in the US are processed domestically, and that no hazardous material is shipped overseas.
Apple has been criticized by environmental groups for its past handling of iPod batteries. Protesters at Apple’s recent annual shareholders’ meeting called the iPod “a time-bomb for our health and the environment” due to toxic materials they allege are in the device.
Apple also recently settled a class action lawsuit related to the iPod and its battery. Plaintiffs alleged that Apple misrepresented the iPod’s battery life and charge capacity in early advertising; Apple agreed to provide some users of first, second and third-generation iPods with partial compensation, a store credit or extended warranty coverage, depending on their circumstances.
Apple offers further details about its Product Take-Back and Recycling policies on its Web site.