Apple Introduces an Environmentally-Friendly iPod

If you’ve been holding back from buying an iPod nano for environmental reasons, it might be time to rethink your decision.

Last week, Apple CEO Steve Jobs introduced the fourth generation iPod nano, which he claims is the most environmentally-friendly iPod ever built. The new nano is made with arsenic-free glass, and unlike previous versions, does not contain Brominated Flame Retardant (BFR) or polyvinylchloride (PVR). The Apple website also claims that the device has a recyclable aluminum enclosure.

While some Apple computers still contain BFRs and PVRs, the company plans to remove them from all products by the end of the year. Customers can already return their old iPods to Apple stores for recycling.

Apple’s steps are nothing to scoff at, but I don’t understand why they weren’t taken before. Did someone at the company think it was a good idea to use toxic substances in their iPods, or was the technology to do without them simply unavailable? Whatever the reason, I hope other electronic companies pay attention to Apple and remove these ever-present toxic materials from their products.

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