Samsung to Ban Use of Hazardous Substances in Products Aug 1, 2005

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South Korean electronics giant Samsung Electronics Co. said it will prohibit the use of hazardous substances in its products from August in an effort to stick to environmental regulations by the European Union (EU).

Samsung's move comes as the EU plans to ban the use of lead, mercury, cadmium, and three other hazardous substances in electrical and electronics products imported into the region, starting July 2006.

The so-called restriction of hazardous substances will bar all electrical and electronics goods containing those substances from clearing customs.

Samsung said it has required its 3,300 domestic and foreign suppliers to ban the use of the six materials that can pose health and environmental risks.

"The policy will help boost Samsung's profile as an eco-friendly company as well as give its products a competitive edge globally," a company official said.

Samsung's ban comes on the heels of a similar move by industry player LG Electronics Inc. Since July 1, LG Electronics has banned the use of hazardous substances in all its products.

The EU is a key market for Samsung and LG depend heavily on exports for their revenues. (Yonhap)

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