From the Dude... I'm Not Getting Dell department:

Michael S. Dell, of Dell Computers, wants to offset the impact of computer energy consumption on the environment. That's why he's started the "Plant A Tree For Me" program which asks customers to donate $2.00 for every laptop they purchase and $6.00 for every desktop PC. The money will then be donated to two nonprofit organizations that promote ways to reduce or offset carbon emissions and, yes, plant trees. While I commend the desire to clean up the environment, I am confused about the method. Is asking the consumer to voluntarily contribute to this fund really going to help the environment in any significant way? Wouldn't it be easier to raise the price of the machines and donate these amounts with each sale? The prices wouldn't raise significantly and no opportunity would be left open for a penny pinching consumer to deny the environment its fair share.

Dell has done a great job with its free recycling program, but if Mr. Dell truly is "personally interested in the environment," he can do a lot better than simply asking his customers to consider a donation. I worked in non-profit telemarketing for a year and can tell you that this approach is not the best way to secure funding.

(New York Times)

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