About Shimadzu

Supplying environmentally friendly products

We aim to develop and manufacture products whose impact on the environment is minimized. As a first step, design guidelines for recycling have been created to promote the usage of recyclable and re-usable materials in our products. This is being steadily applied to our new products to improve the recycling rate. The second stage of our efforts consists of advancing the introduction of the LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) Method. This method aims to reduce the environmental impact of a product over its entire life cycle, from the procurement of raw materials to the manufacturing, retail, use, and disposal of the product.

The complete elimination of ozone depleting substances

The ozone layer which spreads across the stratosphere fulfills the vital role of protecting the flora and fauna on the ground from harmful ultraviolet rays. Lately however, this layer has been greatly depleted due to the massive release of CFC's into the atmosphere. This company worked to completely eliminate CFC cleaning agents and 1,1,1-trichloroethane. This was accomplished at the end of December 1994. In addition, we have strongly requested collaborating companies to stop using CFC's and are working towards early elimination to further improve the environment.

Reducing the amount of usage of packaging materials, and promoting the adoption of recycling

As well as promoting the recycling/re-use of the parts that are re-usable in product packaging (molded styrofoam components) to utilize limited resources efficiently, we are also working to make transportation materials like palettes, wooden boxes, and wooden bases returnable. In addition, we are increasingly choosing to use highly recyclable materials such as corrugated cardboard over styrofoam in our packaging as part of our move to use materials with less environmental impact.

Energy saving activities

In order to help achieve the global target of reducing CO2 emissions, which causes global warming, Shimadzu is working to reduce the usage of electricity as this comprises the greater part of our energy consumption. As an overall theme for the Sanjo Works, the operation of the production facilities is monitored with electricity monitors. Furthermore, energy saving activities are being strongly promoted through the appointment of energy saving leaders with responsibility over the air-conditioning facilities, lighting, and office automation equipment etc.

Reduction of waste products

Waste separation/recycling campaigns

The recycling of recyclable resources is strongly promoted by appointing a leader for every 20-30 workers at every workplace, and thoroughly separating and recycling waste products.

Discharge reduction campaigns

Campaigns are being implemented to reduce the gross volume of waste products and the amount of use and storage of toxic substances.

Activities to prevent environmental pollution

We are striving to prevent environmental pollution by carrying out periodic measurements of noise, atmosphere, and water quality to comply not only with the regulations, but our self-imposed standards as well. In addition, employees undergo periodic education and training to maintain their levels of readiness for emergency situations.