Diary of a Mad Editor

I was somewhat intrigued when I spied the headline: Why the Book Publishing Industry Hates the IPad until I realized that the subject of the post had nothing to do with the book publishing industry’s feelings about the IPad. No, it’s about how eBooks are more harmful to the environment than paper books.

Okay, I care about the environment. I’m not exactly a tree-hugger, but I recycle and try not to litter, etc.  I’m not saying I’m one of those load-up-the thule rack weekend getaway camping biking kayaking bird watching types, but I’m not dumping chemicals in the lake either. And, okay, I can understand how so-called “electronic pollution” can damage the environment like so many other things. But, come on! Let’s not pretend that this business about eBook readers damaging the environment isn’t first and foremost more anti-eBook propaganda. Still, I have to tip my hat at the genius of it. After all, eco-friendly consumers are much more likely to own lots of these electronic gadgets like the IPad.  But do you really think the eco-damage from an IPad is anywhere near the damage caused by a paper factory? I’m thinking not.