by Andrew Michler,

Apple has been in hot water ever since a long and detailed New York Times report came out highlighting abuses and environmental hazards during the manufacture of its products in China. From chronically overworked employees and extremely hazardous working conditions to overcrowding in dormitories and low pay, the article has unleashed a resounding criticism of Apple and speculation that a boycott will be next. We want to know what you think – would you boycott Apple products until they clean up their act in China?

While boycotts have been used successfully in the past, Apple is the wealthiest company in the US and it will take a massive ground surge to make the company feel the pinch. The damage to Apple’s shine may be enough to make them insist on better treatment and a safer working environment. They have long said they do everything they can to improve conditions, but reports show that 1/3 of factories did not satisfy hazardous waste requirements and 62% of suppliers were out of compliance with the maximum 60 hour work week.

Apple CEO Tim Cook also responded that the report is “patently false,” but “We will continue to dig deeper, and we will undoubtedly find more issues. What we will not do — and never have done — is stand still or turn a blind eye to problems in our supply chain. On this you have my word.”

Is that enough – or does Apple need to be sent a message through our pocketbooks? Sound off in the comments!

(Source: www.inhabitat.com )