Consoles Not “Green” Enough For Greenpeace

It seems everywhere you look, video gaming is being attacked somehow. If some lawmaker isn’t looking to “protect our kids”, take your pick of an advocate group that has a problem with GTA IV. Now it looks like console makers have another group to answer to, Greenpeace.

In an article, by the BBC, it goes into detail about what beef Greenpeace has with all the console makers. In case you haven’t put it together, they are upset that the console giants haven’t done enough to stay “green”. They did a study on all three consoles, dissecting each to find out what materials were used in their creation.

Greenpeace had criticisms for each of the three gaming companies. While they all complied with the environmental laws of Europe, neither showed much effort in staying green. It might be a surprise to some, but Nintendo probably faired the worse in Greenpeace’s report. According to the group, Nintendo has no environment policy what-so-ever. In fact, Nintendo is ranked last in Greenpeace’s report on “green” technology companies.

Here are a few quotes from the article, on just what’s in consoles that are hazardous:

“The report found that all three consoles contained varying levels of the toxic element bromine, which is used as a flame retardant.”

“The report found that the PS3 and 360 both contained “very high” levels of chemicals, called phthalates, which are used to “soften” flexible materials like wires and cable coatings.”

“The presence of beryllium was found in both the PS3 and Xbox 360. The element is not banned under EU law but it has been linked to lung cancer when dust and fumes are created through some recycling processes.”

After the report surfaced, Nintendo and Microsoft both issued statements. Both companies stated that they would try and devise means to create their consoles without any of the harmful chemicals mentioned. Of course it will be a lengthy process to see through, but atleast they are showing effort. Sony on the other hand declined comment.

Usually when I hear anyone criticizing the gaming industry, I either ignore it, or get a good chuckle from it. This however is on a whole different level then most video game dissenters. I believe this report just shows how much more informed we should be staying in terms of production procedures for electronics. As the world becomes more digital, and electronic devices swarm around us, it will be important to know how much of a health hazard each of them possess.