Pentax 2008 Annual Report Download - page 33

mainly to ascertain the actual material loss in each process.
From the fiscal year under review, the Hoya Group succeeded
in converting some of its waste oil and waste plastic into valuable,
saleable items, marking the commencement of enhanced efforts
to reduce the volume of waste to be processed in the future.
Hoya worked to reduce packaging materials through such
measures as re-using larger volumes of product packaging boxes
for a wider variety of purposes.
We have implemented controls on the amount of substances used
or emitted in production processes, and introduced chemical
substitutions, in response to various laws and regulations. Targets
on chemical substances have been set through such guidelines as
the RoHS directive and REACH regulations. Each operating division
is preparing activities that respond to such overseas regulations,
which grow stronger each year.
We stopped distributing free software that is included with
products via CDs and other physical media, switching instead to
download via the Internet and e-mail distribution.
Steps to reduce leakage
Previously, the Company had transferred alkaline waste liquids
originating from certain processes to drum cans and then
transported them to the disposal site. However, as this procedure
was carried out on a daily basis, there existed a risk of leakage
from the drum cans toppling or otherwise being compromised.
Leakage from drum cans at the outside storage area was also a
concern, leading Hoya to help remedy the situation by
establishing a centralized alkaline waste liquid collection line. The
line stores the tanks indoors and enables rapid response in the
event of an incident by the placement of protective liquid barriers
and sensors around the tanks.
In addition, in response to increasing volumes of waste liquid
at certain operating facilities, we introduced new waste liquid
tanks to supplement conventional tanks, thereby enhancing the
reliability of waste liquid collection and helping to prevent leakage.
Measures for tanks and distribution lines
To prevent the risk of leakage from facilities that have become
outdated, the Group is taking necessary measures to reduce the
risk of harmful substance leakage from aging pipes.
Also, at certain facilities we are taking such steps as removing
underground tanks and buried piping, introducing voluntary
reinforcement of inspections of tanks and buried drainage basins
and piping, and replacing or repairing tanks and pipes, as needed.
Specific examples of efforts to cut the risk of leakage include
upgrades to piping for suspension waste water and duplication of
piping for chemicals, which have been completed. We will also
upgrade final effluent pipes releasing into rivers.
Renewal of aging facilities
To reduce risks associated with aging facilities, we are promoting
upgrades to extra-high-voltage transforming stations, drainage
facilities and other facilities required for plant operations.
Efforts to improve and restore soil quality
With the closing certain facilities, we are conducting soil
remediation as stipulated by the Soil Contamination Policy Act
and other relevant legal statutes. Prior to commencing such
operations, Hoya held an explanatory briefing to communicate
with surrounding residents regarding the risks, taking appropriate
steps to ensure that they would not be inconvenienced.
Emergency response measures
Hoya strives to ensure that the environmental impact from its
operating facilities to the outside world is minimized in the event
of an accident, by compiling written procedures on emergency
response methods.
One priority goal of the Group involves measures to handle
asbestos building materials. All sprayed asbestos had been either
removed or effectively contained by March 2008.
Hoya is also promoting removal or other relevant measures for
other construction materials when buildings are renovated or at
other opportune times.
In October 1996, Hoya announced its intention to make its
environmental management systems compliant with ISO 14001
certification standards, and in December 1997 Hoya Lens
Deutschland GmbH became the first in the Hoya Group to gain
such certification.
Since then, Hoya has proceeded with efforts to gain
certification for its operating facilities, including overseas
production bases, and a total of 42 Hoya group sites (13 in Japan,
29 abroad) have now acquired certification.
Introduction of Environmental Management
Systems (ISO 14001 Certification)
Steps to reduce the environmental impact
of products
Measures to handle asbestos building
materials
Efforts to reduce the volume of packaging
materials used
Steps taken to reduce chemical usage
Measures to reduce environmental risks
HOYA ANNUAL REPORT 2008 31