Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. is going beyond its recycling programs to become an eco-conscious leader by 2013. On July 20, Samsung announced its “Eco-Management 2013” plan, which includes ensuring that 100 percent of Samsung products are eco-friendly and exceed global green standards as well as greening its manufacturing facilities.
The initiative emphasizes increasing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions at manufacturing plants, overall low-carbon economic growth, eco-management plans and developing green partnerships with suppliers.
The management vision, “Creating New Value Through Eco-Innovation,” includes a “PlanetFirst” focus, demonstrating Samsung’s new commitment to environmentally conscious decisions and using technology towards innovation that serves the environment in a better way.
Samsung Electronics' vice chairman and CEO Yoon-Woo Lee said this new plan applies to all global operations, supply chain, and complete lifecycle of products.
“As a leading global technology company, Samsung Electronics has always taken our environmental responsibilities very seriously, but today we are committing to becoming a truly green enterprise that places eco-management at the very heart of our business decision-making and growth,” he said.
Samsung intends to increase the energy efficiency of its TVs, refrigerators and air conditioning systems. Each product will be evaluated on energy efficiency and the use of recyclable and eco-friendly materials. Each product must exceed Samsung’s internal Good Eco-Product criteria, which Samsung says go beyond basic industry requirements, meet global eco-mark standards and require eco-friendly features.
