Does all this make you feel like you were just punched? Well… you're not alone! Many startups, small to medium size companies and even some large companies will feel ''bloodied' after realizing that some of their new products (should they not comply with certain Environmental Guardianship laws) will not be allowed into certain markets of the world after specific dates.

The EU formally proclaims about it's EG laws: "…the laws (Directives) are in force - or soon will be …with the aim of ensuring the free movement of those products which comply and of improving their overall environmental impact."

All these laws, policies, regulations and standards - let's call them EG Dictums - represent very pertinent Environmental Guardianship issues that alliances and countries worldwide, as well as individual consumers, are beginning to demand or legally obligate for the products they purchase. Because of that, you can be sure that some of these dictums will influence time and resource allocations within your business operations and development plans.

Note: The EG issues discussed in this article are not the same as the environmental robustness verification of a product such as: drop tests, humidity, altitude tests, etc. (See What Every Product Development Manager and Executive Need to Know about Product Testing for Unexpected Wear & Tear for more on these aspects).