Apple’s Cook Blasts Climate Changes Deniers To Get Out Of Apple Stock

From a product release standpoint, we're still collectively waiting for Apple chief Tim Cook to make a splash and really knock our socks off. That's not to say he hasn't been a fine replacement for Steve Jobs -- Apple is still making an obscene amount of money, and Cook is more than willing to discuss how much friendlier his company is towards the environment compared to before he took over. In fact, if you're a shareholder who isn't on board with his green efforts, Cook would rather you dump your stock and invest elsewhere.

Let's back up a quick second. Apple's efforts in renewable energy are commendable. According to Mashable, over three-quarters of the company's facilities around the world run on solar, wind, geothermal, or hydro power. When Jobs was still in charge, about a quarter of Apple's operations ran on one of those. In addition, Cook hired former EPA boss Lisa Jackson to serve as Apple's environmental chief.

Apple Campus

For those who don't believe in climate change, Cook's efforts are nothing more than a waste time, energy, and money. It was only a matter of time before the two sides would butt heads, and at Apple's annual shareholder meeting, the National Center for Public Policy Research pressured Cook and the board to stop chasing environmental issues that don't boost profits.

"We object to increased government control over company products and operations, and likewise mandatory environmental standards," NCPPR wrote in a statement. "This is something [Apple] should be actively fighting, not preparing surrender."

Ouch. Those words didn't sit well with Cook, who countered that Apple's environmental moves are not only responsible, but they also make for good economics. Despite that, however, "we do a lot of things for reasons besides profit motive," Cook fired back. "We want to leave the world better than we found it."

For those who don't agree with Cook's philosophy, his succinct message resonates loud and clear -- "Get out of the stock."