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materials procurement, manufacturing and distribution, through to consumption and eventual disposal. These guidelines call for en- vironmentally conscious design, environmental assessment of all products, and full disclosure of environmental impacts and other information. 

Toshiba promotes environmentally con- scious design grounded in the principle of the “5Rs”: design to achieve reduction, reuse, re- cycling, reduction of energy consumption and reduction of substances with an environmen- tal impact. In establishing its “Environmentally Conscious Product Design Guidelines” and “Eco Material Selection Guidelines,” Toshiba promotes the use of lead-free solder, green procurement, and the development of an environmentally conscious design support system. 

In the area of environmental assessment of products, Toshiba has introduced “Product Assessment Guidelines” for its complete prod- uct range, to clarify the extent to which the environmental impact of a contemplated product is reduced compared with that of the previous model. In particular, Toshiba has in- corporated a lifecycle assessment (LCA)-based quantitative evaluation in the product assess- ment of mass-produced mainstay models. The application of LCA is expected to increase over a broader range of products in the future. 

Toshiba applies stringent standards in the disclosure of environmental performance. The Company has adopted a leading position in the industry, adopting 13 criteria, including the “5Rs,” in its “voluntary environmental standards.” Toshiba products that comply with all of the Company’s voluntary standards and that have gained eco-labels, Toshiba Group’s environmental performance self-dec- laration mark in compliance with ISO 14021, are introduced on the Company’s Web site. 

A prime example of Toshiba’s environmen- tally conscious products is the “New Super Power Eco,” an air conditioner used in large stores. Equipped with Toshiba’s unique dual inverter system for simultaneous control of two inverter compressors, and using a new high-efficiency refrigerant, R-410A, this new product has achieved an air-conditioning sys- tem that cuts power consumption to 40% of earlier models and was awarded the Director- General’s Prize from the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy in the 2002 Energy Conservation Awards. 

## Recycling Activities 

Recycling is another essential aspect of Toshi- ba’s activities. All Group companies focus on the development of technologies that recycle discarded products and the materials from which they are made. Emphasis is also placed on the reduction of waste and costs. In accor- dance with Japan’s recycling law, which requires manufacturers to take back TVs, re- frigerators, washing machines and air-conditioners at the end of their life, Toshi- ba recycled 1,560,000 units during fiscal 2002. In preparation for the introduction of recycling laws in Europe in 2005, Toshiba has established a European Environmental Divi- sion in Germany. 

## Activities for Society and Local Communities 

Toshiba Group companies actively contribute to the communities in which they operate, and for the betterment of society as a whole. 

Opened in 1961, the Toshiba Science Mu- seum welcomes more than 120,000 visitors each year to view the Company’s latest tech- nologies. The museum also serves to increase interest in science as a place for people to in- teract with science displays, and offers personal computer courses for beginners. 

In addition, Toshiba has three charitable foundations around the world, including the Toshiba International Foundation and Toshi- ba America Foundation, which support cultural and educational activities. Toshiba also works closely with regional groups in Ja- pan to hold events in tune with the needs of local communities. 

Toshiba believes it is essential to disclose its activities and results in protecting the envi- ronment based on environmental management systems to as many people as possible through open communication both within and outside the Company. To this end, the Company publishes an Environmental Report and discloses related information on its Web site. 

For more information on Toshiba Group environmental protection activities, please vis- it our Web site at: http://www.toshiba.co.jp/ env/english/index.htm. 

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