Is the product safe - relative to the consumer, surroundings and environment? This is the question consumers will want to have answered. Only by understanding the markets into which the product is to be sold, together with the laws, regulations, policies, and demanded standards that affect the product, and markets can the answer be known.
And it's very critical to remember that many, if not all, of the considerations in this article will have some effect on your business practices and its success - not just on the product's structure.
The marketplace is global and shrinking, as is the world of compliance. Therefore, one needs to stay on top of these environmental laws, policies and standards. As of this writing (3Q-2005) more states in the USA, provinces in Canada and the other large-market countries are adapting many of the current and pending international environmental laws - all of which is making a mess of the single market theory for those not aware or concerned.
So… Is this all just a load of bullspit?
Well… here's just a sampling of what's goin' on - you decide…
Xerox is promoting an environmentally friendly product portfolio as well as its ongoing efforts to deliver "waste-free products from waste-free facilities."
NEC LCD displays are quickly ramping up to full RoHS-WEEE and Energy Star compliance.
Subaru's factory in Lafayette, Indiana, is the first auto assembly plant in North America to become completely waste-free.
HP is implementing "Environmental Sustainability" concepts as one of its core responsibilities.
Sony is following a similar path into environment guardianship.
Philips has introduced more than one hundred Green Flagship products.
Samsung utilizes its Green Management system and Eco-Design to alleviate the environmental impact during the life cycle of a product.
Cypress Ships 200 Millionth lead-free and RoHS-Compliant Device; Milestone Demonstrates Cypress's Commitment to lead-free Package Implementation.
Nokia and the EC: Building a Market for "Greener" Products
IBM's Product Stewardship Program has brought about industry-leading practices in design for the environment, product environmental metrics and product recycling.
GE is committed to achieving environmental, health and safety (EHS) excellence through - Safe Products, Safe Earth.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only and do not represent the views of the Techman/Kanata or of any of its directors, officers or employees. The author, Mr. Richard (Dick) Haney, can be reached at RichardMHaney@cs.com
