Judge Files Complaint Against HP

The complaint cites HP’s websites and documentation making statements such as “[w]orks only with original HP ink,” “requires … exclusive use of Original HP ink cartridges for the life of the printer,” and “[c]artridges using a non-HP chip may not function or may cease to function.”

The complaint asserts that these and similar statements regarding HP’s Dynamic Security and HP+ printers are in direct conflict with EPEAT Criterion 4.9.2.1. 86 printer models with such contradictory statements are specifically identified, but the complaint asks the GEC to review all HP EPEAT registrations for the presence of Dynamic Security and HP+ printers.

“HP is insulting EPEAT and the Global Electronics Council by claiming EPEAT certification for Dynamic Security and HP+ printers that, according to HP’s own product documentation, prevent the use of remanufactured cartridges,” said Int’l ITC Executive Director Tricia Judge.

“Dynamic Security is HP’s name for printers that receive killer firmware updates capable of disabling perfectly functional third-party cartridges overnight, thereby forcing customers to buy HP’s overpriced cartridges instead. By claiming EPEAT registration on Dynamic Security printers, HP is simultaneously eliminating consumer choice and greenwashing its products.”

The complaint explains that “ecolabels exist to help consumers and institutional purchasers quickly and easily identify those products that meet specific environmental performance criteria and are therefore deemed ‘environmentally preferable.’ That purpose is only served when the managing body ensures strict compliance with its requirements and holds accountable manufacturers that fail to comply.” The Global Electrics Council oversees EPEAT, which it calls its “flagship program.”