October 2nd, 2006
Introducing the iPod "Death Star" - You can have it in any color, except green
Spoof Apple ads aren't all that uncommon, but Greenpeace has launched one that contains a serious message - warning consumers that Apple isn't really all that green.
Apple isn't the worst company when it comes to trashing the planet for profits (Lenovo, Motorola and Acer are busy developing their own planet-busting "Death Star" branded products) but it is the most popular, and this has turned it into a target for change by the environmental watchdog.
According to Greenpeace, Apple needs to make some serious improvements to improve it's pitiful score of 2.7 out of 10, lagging way behind eco-friendly companies such as Dell, Nokia and HP (HP's boardroom ethics leaves a lot to be desired but I admire their committment to producing greener electronics). Apple doesn't just need to eliminate the toxins that its computers are packed with (there's no need to use these toxic chemicals because better alternatives exist, but I guess they must cost a little more), but it also needs to dramatically improve its recycling policies. They could also do a lot in areas such as energy efficiency and reducing packaging.
To help Apple onto the green path, Greenpeace has a few viral campaign suggestions. For example:
- Design a campaign poster or t-shirt.
- Use some footage to make a video about the issue.
- Grab a Green My Apple logo.
- Repurpose some images from the e-waste dumps in Asia.
- Create an alternative Steve Jobs speech.
- Make an alternative Apple ad.
Love iPod? Hate the fact that it's destroying the planet? Tell Apple what you think. Send Steve a message.
Adrian is a technology journalist and author who has devoted over a decade to helping users get the most from technology. He also runs a popular blog called The PC Doctor. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations
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