Bloomberg's Green Sheen Tainted

New York City would be the first city in the nation to require manufacturers and retailers to recycle outdated electronics equipment, but Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who built his fortune in part on selling Bloomberg terminals, has vowed to block the legislation.

E-waste is a real problem. Toxic ingredients that make circuitry work can foul the environment if disposed of improperly, and there have been numerous reports that a lot of America's toxic E-waste ends up spoiling third world nations.

Recycling is a real possibility, and should become more economical if the price of metal commodities continues to rise. Not only that, but a New York City law would build momentum for a statewide law, and New York could inspire other states.

But Bloomberg, who is a darling in the environmental community for his tough talk on global warming and his action plans to make the city sustainable, won't bite, at least not as the law is currently written. Bloomberg, a savvy businessman, has also won respect for running a tight ship; it could be there are flaws in the bill that could be improved, but his clear business interest (even if he is no longer the head of the company that bears his name) should make us skeptical.

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