Product Environmental Management

A Number of Missions

Supplier Conference for Acer CSR 2009
To continuously respond to the fast-changing challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of Acer as a successful global brand company, we established a CSR Executive Committee and a Corporate Sustainability Office (CSO) for the governance and management of CSR and sustainability issues. Not only will Acer initiate CSR actions, but we will walk the talk to trigger the supply chain to collaboratively participate in global CSR initiatives.

We reiterated our determination of phasing in HSF materials in the Supplier Conference and all suppliers were asked to fully support this. In addition, we addressed on the topics of Social Responsibility (Labor Rights and Code of Conduct), Acer’s Green Product Thinking, HSF Management, GHG Inventory (Product Carbon Footprint) and announced Acer’s CSR Forum 2009 in December. The suppliers shall focus on the issue of sustainability and provide a two-way communication for Acer’s requirements.

After the conference, Acer and suppliers established an ad hoc working group to find out Acer’s product carbon footprint and ways of reduction. Products’ global warming issues are indeed the responsibility of the whole supply chain.

Technology Assessment
Our first step is to better understand the use of PVC, BFRs and phthalates in products by conducting research and studies to assess the feasibility of eliminating their use. The research and studies revealed that the majority of PVC, BFRs and phthalates used in our current products are found in the plastics materials of mechanical components, printed circuit boards and wiring (see Technology Assessment Results). These preliminary assessments show that our commitment to eliminate PVC, BFRs and phthalates in Acer products can be actualized by 2009.

Inventory Procedures
In early 2006, Acer carried out inventory studies on supplier usage of PVC, BFRs and phthalates. Explanatory briefings were held and systems and major component suppliers were invited to participate. The goal of these briefings was to clearly explain Acer's objective and resolution in implementing the HSF Plan and declaring our pledge to eliminate the use of PVC, BFRs and phthalates within a specified time frame. We also provided a detailed explanation of the inventory procedures to encourage cooperation from suppliers.

Result Analysis and Evaluation
Result analyses and evaluations on system and important component suppliers require the use of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing. Additionally, a scheduled comprehensive review and evaluation of substitute materials is required to ensure the accuracy of inspection data.

Establishing the HSF Database
Acer initiated the establishment of an HSF database that would efficiently provide access to information on hazardous chemical substances used by our suppliers and products. This step further tightened the links in Acer's green supplier chain system. In our efforts to follow up on HSF product development, we will utilize inventories and provide technology assistance to upstream suppliers to gradually eliminate components containing hazardous chemical substances from Acer's purchasing system.

Disclosing Information on HSF Implementation Initiative
Acer's corporate website discloses the results of the HSF Plan implementation for each quarter, allowing clients, suppliers and interested parties to keep track of our progress.