News Coverage
Activist Groups Link 'Toxic Dust' On Computers To Diseases
Published June 3, 2004
An activists' study found toxic dust on computer processors and monitors contains chemicals linked to reproductive and neurological disorders.
The study by a group of activists fighting chemical industries is among the first to find brominated flame retardants on the surfaces of common devices in homes and offices.
Independent researchers who reviewed the new study say consumers shouldn't throw out their computers -- but they should write to politicians and ask for stronger protection against such chemicals.
Researchers collected and tested samples of dust from dozens of computers in eight states, including university computer labs in New York, Michigan and Texas.
Dell and other computer makers continue using a flame retardant on circuit boards related to the brominated varieties. They also use lead, mercury and other toxins in central processing units and monitors. But Dell and others stopped using polybrominated diphenyl retardants in 2002.