Toshiba Group has set a target rate for improving the total amount of chemicals discharged per unit in its Environmental Action Plan. We are working to reduce chemical emissions through process improvements in manufacturing operations, etc.
The amount of hazardous chemicals discharged and moved* that could adversely affect human health or the environment in FY2024 was 2,003 kg.
- The figure is determined based on the volume discharged and moved of the substances that are managed by Toshiba Corporation among all the substances defined in the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
Furthermore, Toshiba Group classifies approximately 2,000 chemical substances based on standards such as environmental laws and regulations into three substance ranks (hazard levels A, B, and C). Chemicals are classified as subject to prohibition, reduction, or control by determining their respective risks by evaluating the substance’s hazard level and the impact of exposure to the relevant substance.
Substance ranking and management classifications
Prohibited Substances
We manage chemicals by ranking them according to the degree of restrictions on their use. Use of Rank A substances is prohibited or strictly limited under the Act on the Regulation of Manufacture and Evaluation of Chemical Substances (the Chemical Substance Control Law), the Industrial Safety and Health Act, and the Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Act, among others. Use of some Rank B substances is prohibited based on risks and regulatory trends.
Substances Targeted for Reduction / Managed Substances
We are working to reduce the use of substances that we have specified, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and substances designated as Class 1 chemical substances under the PRTR Law, as substances targeted for reduction. Our measures include replacing them with alternative raw materials and chemicals, reducing usage through productivity and process improvements, and controlling VOCs through the introduction of emission control and recovery equipment.
Managed substances refer to raw materials and chemicals whose usage and emissions must be minimized and properly managed.
For substances targeted for reduction and managed substances, we conduct preliminary environmental assessments whenever they are newly used or when their type or quantity is changed. Usage and emissions are recorded and managed within our control system, and prompt corrective action is taken if internal compliance standards are exceeded.