Wal-Mart goes green with sustainable electronics
updated 04:25 pm EDT, Mon March 12, 2007
Wal-Mart Green Electronics
Wal-Mart late Monday announced that it would pursue sustainable development in the electronics it carries in stores. Beginning in 2008, the retail giant will grade the electronics companies that fill its shelves based on their eco-friendliness. Energy efficiency, packing, recycling options, and the presence of toxic chemicals will be considered among other factors, according to Wal-Mart.
While the company hasn't indicated that it will drop wasteful suppliers, it says it will encourage electronics makers to rate higher on its scorecards; many devices that fit the Reduction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) standard already score well, such as notebooks From Toshiba. The move puts greater pressure on Apple and other firms to change their processes, as it and other firms still include irreplaceable parts and dangerous materials.
