The latest report from environmental group Greenpeace again rates Apple in last place of all technology companies the organization ranks.
“Apple, having made no progress since the launch of the Guide in August 2006, continues to languish in last place, far behind all other major manufacturers,” reads a statement from Greenpeace.
Greenpeace began a campaign focusing on Apple last August with the first Green Electronics Guide. The report scores companies on their use of hazardous chemicals, recycling and take-back policies. It uses information published by the companies for the report.
In early December, when a new report was published, Apple again finished in last place. It turned out to be a busy month for Greenpeace as it launched the Green My Apple Web site and targeted Apple’s high-profile Fifth Avenue Store for a demonstration.
Greenpeace is also targeting Apple’s next shareholder meeting, making sure two environmental proposals will be on the agenda. The organization is rallying support for the proposals, while Apple’s Board of Directors is recommending shareholders vote against the proposals.
Apple contends that it has made some important environmental decisions in the past few years. In addition to the computer take-back program started last year, Apple was one of the first companies to eliminate CRT monitors from its product lines. According to the company, using flat-panel displays eliminate more than two pounds of lead, consume up to 80 percent less energy in sleep mode and weigh half as much as their CRT counterparts.
Apple was also named a “Forward Green Leader,” one of the top ten environmentally progressive companies recognized by the Sierra Club in 2006.