HP turned around and surprised the industry with a green desktop to start CES. Previously, HP had delayed their phase out of PVC plastic and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) from their computing products for 2 years.

Six months ago, I was climbing a ladder over a barbed wire fence to get on the HP roof with two gallons of paint on my back.  Twelve activists painted a huge sign that said “Hazardous Products” on the roof of HP headquarters to send a strong message.  HP had delayed its commitment to remove the toxic chemicals by two years, affecting people and the environment.

The same morning, William Shatner lent his voice to several thousand phone calls into HP employees to ask for a green laptop.

As we see HP making progress in phasing out these toxic chemicals from their products, we want to see their competitors, such as Dell and Lenovo, make the change as well.   For years, we have campaigned to green the electronics industry, calling out laggards and highlighting leaders.  This year, the president of CEA introduced the event saying green tech is driving innovation.  We are glad to know that Greenpeace has helped drive green tech and helped the planet.

—Tad

1:25 pm  •  9 January 2010 Share on facebook