Apple's iPhone May Pose Health Risk

Is apple really that green? No, not because the user interface is so nifty you’re prone to run into something while using it. (I don’t own one myself, but know people that do, and I have to admit, it’s pretty nifty).

The “niftiness” of the product aside, environmental groups have raised concerns about the toxic materials used in the production of the iPhone.

Based on reports and testing done by Greenpeace, the Centre of Environmental Health based in Oakland, California has threatened Apple with a lawsuit unless the company responds within 60 days.

Greenpeace has alleged that the iPhone contains dangerous levels of bromine, chlorine, and phthalates. Phthalates are linked to birth defects and Greenpeace alleges that the level of the chemical (please don’t ask me to spell “phthalates” again) in the headphone wires of the iPhone are higher that what is allowed in toys and childcare products sold in Europe.

An Apple spokesman responded thusly to these allegations:
“Like all Apple products worldwide, iPhone complies with RoHS [the EU’s Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive], the world’s toughest restrictions on toxic substances in electronics.” Adding that Apple has already pledged to eliminate the use of PVC and brominated flame retardants by the end of next year.

Seems to me the end of next year is more than 60 days away.

In any case, this is an example of how nifty new electronics gadgets may appear slick and shiny on the outside, but they often times carry a dirty little secret on the inside.

Sources and Further Reading:
InfoWorld
The TimesOnline
Centre for Environmental Health
Greenpeace