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Toshiba Corporation Annual Report 1998 25.
Q. ANSWERS
A NSWERS
ANSWERS
A NSWERS
Q U E S T I O N
A.
Awards for environmental
achievements have gone to the
microelectronics center of
Toshiba America Electronic
Components in California
(above) and Toshiba Display
Devices (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
(right).
Q. WHAT ACTIONS IS TOSHIBA
TAKING TO EXPAND ENVIRONMENTAL
PROGRAMS OVERSEAS?
A. We divide operations outside Japan into four
geographical areas: the Americas, Europe, Asia and
China. Each area has an environmental conference to
encourage the sharing of information and improve
programs. The head office in Tokyo periodically checks
on environmental activities to monitor progress and
make improvements where needed. Thanks to this
stance, Toshiba receives high marks around the world.
In Europe, we have implemented the Eco-Management
and Audit Scheme, a 1995 EU regulation, making us
one of the first companies to do so. In the United
States, the microelectronics center of Toshiba America
Electronic Components, Inc. operates a model semi-
conductor plant with regard to environmental standards.
This accomplishment was recognized in April 1997
by an award from the city of Sunnyvale, California,
where the plant is located. In Asia, Toshiba Display
Devices (Thailand) Co., Ltd. has received an environ-
mental award from the Thai Ministry of Industry for
three consecutive years.
Q. MOST MANUFACTURERS ARE FOCUSING
ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENVIRONMENTALLY
CONSCIOUS PRODUCTS. WHAT IS TOSHIBA
DOING IN THIS REGARD?
A. We have a voluntary plan that sets numerical targets for reducing the environmental impact of individual
products. An exhaustive assessment system examines products from the start of their development to use
fewer resources, promote recycling, cut power consumption and facilitate other improvements. This plan
applies to consumer products as well as many other items, from information equipment to power systems.
We have made much progress in refrigerators, which account for about 20 percent of a typical household’s
electricity needs. But larger models are becoming more popular; some weigh 90 kilograms. That means ease
of dismantling is essential. Toshiba altered the layout of the compressor and fan motor to create a better air
flow. This greatly reduced the amount of heat generated. New ideas like this have allowed us to cut refrig-
erator power consumption by roughly 20 percent annually over the past several years. For example, a 34-
kilowatt-hour model today is basically equivalent to a 1994 unit that consumed 73 kilowatt hours.
Toshiba and the Environment—Interview
Toshiba Corporation Annual Report 1998 25.