APC 2001 Annual Report Download - page 38

Challenges
Develop corporate
Among our current research programs, we are
working on producing lead-free electronic cards
and finding cost-effective replacements for chrome VI
that can be applied worldwide. An intranet site
provides access to all available information
on regulations, materials and best practices, as well
as an eco-design guide to help designers make
the best choices while taking supplier needs
into account.
Schneider Electric actively studies recycling solutions,
in particular through the ELEN pilot project in France
to define cost effective options for end-of-cycle
electrical and electronic products.
Help
young people build successful lives
Through their work, the Schneider Electric Youth
Opportunities Foundation and the Square D
Foundation in the United States express
the Company’s community commitment and public
spirit. The Youth Opportunities Foundation promotes
education and training in all of Schneider Electric’s
host countries. It also supports organizations
for disadvantaged youth in which Schneider Electric
employees are actively involved (more than
180 in 2001).
The Foundation is involved in national and international
campaigns to help children and teenagers.
It also provides financial backing and skills assistance
to young entrepreneurs.
Improve
production processes
Environmental protection and controlled use
of water, electricity and raw materials are part of our
production site management policy. We apply
a common approach in all countries based
on continuous improvement and in-depth employee
involvement. At the end of 2001, 105 of our plants
in 20 countries had obtained ISO 14001 certification.
Schneider Electric’s environmental management
strategy is based on a guide of processes that use
Best Available Technology. Our research
and purchasing teams play an important role in this
strategy. Procurement officers, for example, are
trained to assess suppliers’ environmental
management capabilities, notably as applied
to their processes.
We also deploy action plans to rehabilitate sites
contaminated by past activities and to eliminate
identified risks. In Metz, France, for example, the site
of a former transformer plant has been rehabilitated
for urban use.
Design
environmentally friendly products
We take the environment into account at the
product design stage, with a focus on reducing
consumption of natural resources, controlling energy
use and gradually eliminating sensitive substances.
Because this is a corporate responsibility,
we will establish guidelines we can all embrace that clarify
our commitment to our community.We will explain
our sustainable development strategy.
Find out more at
www.foundation.schneider-electric.com
Community responsibility