Greenpeace vandalises HP headquarters

 

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By Stuart Turton

Posted on 30 Jul 2009 at 13:56

Greenpeace activists have vandalised HP's Palo Alto headquarters, painting the words Hazardous Products on the roof.

The activists had taken issue with HP's alleged backtracking on promises to reduce the toxic chemicals such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) from its products by the end of the year.

According to Greenpeace, ten activists scaled the the building to scrawl the 11,500 square foot message in non-toxic fingerpaint - which was a nice touch. Similar campaigns have been promised against sites in Holland and China, as the environmental organisation attempts to shame the company into action.

Employees to the Palo Alto building were also greeted by a voicemail message from William Shatner calling on HP to phase out harmful chemicals.

"HP continues to put hazardous products on the market," says Greenpeace campaigner Casey Harrell. "Apple has led the sector in phasing out these toxic chemicals. HP should be following Apple's lead, instead of breaking its commitment and delaying action."

None of which moved HP: "The unconstructive antics at HP's headquarters did nothing to advance the goals that all who care about the environment share," claims HP in a statement.

"HP will continue its efforts to develop new products and programs around the globe that help the company, its business partners and customers conserve energy, reduce materials use and reduce waste through responsible reuse and recycling."

Dell and Lenovo were also accused of reneging on promises to phase out toxins in Greenpeace's Guide to Greener Electronics, though no action has been taken against these companies.