It’s always interesting what companies are doing to be more environmentally friendly. Apple continues to distinguish itself for thinking different yet it hasn’t really pushed the threshold on being a tech company that is truly environmentally conscious.

The BIG news of today? Of course Apple fans will know — the introduction of the Macbook Air.

According to Macworld, there are a few things that Apple has done to be a little more green:

“Jobs offered information about the environmental goals behind the MacBook Air — it has a fully recyclable aluminum case, and is “the first” to have a mercury-free display with arsenic-free glass. All the circuit boards are BFR-free and PVC-free, and the retail packaging uses 56 percent less material than the MacBook packaging.” — Peter Cohen, Macworld

I think if Apple truly wants to think different, it should follow the OLPC.

“XO is fully compliant with the European Union’s RoHS Directive. It contains no hazardous materials. Its LiFePO4 or NiMH batteries contain no toxic heavy metals, plus it features enhanced battery management for an extended recharge-cycle lifetime. It will also tolerate alternate power-charging sources, such as car batteries.” — OLPC Laptop Features

I realize there are differences in hardware and software requirements but the OLPC was adhering to a much more rigid and strict set of standards — I can’t imagine following up on a couple of the innovations that the OLPC was working on would harm Apple. It’d actually really make Apple a leader not only in terms of UI and design, but also with regards to being proactive with regards to supporting the environment.