Wal-Mart first to
offer laptop that meets European hazwaste directive
Feb. 22Wal-Mart Stores Inc. will be the
first U.S. retailer to offer a laptop computer that meets a European
directive restricting hazardous materials.
The retail giant worked with Toshiba America Information Systems Inc.
to develop the Satellite A55-S1064 laptop, which meets the European
Unionīs Restriction on Hazardous Substance directive. The directive
restricts the use of hazardous substances, such as lead, chromium and
mercury, in electronics sold in European markets effective July 1.
Electronics sold in the United States do not have to meet the RoHS
standard, but Wal-Mart has encouraged its suppliers to restrict the
amount of hazardous material in their products, said John Kooy, Wal-Mart
vice president of electronics. All personal computers Wal-Mart sells
will meet the RoHS standard by July, he said.
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