Chemical Substance Management

While chemical substances make people’s lives more convenient, they also could have harmful effects on the environment or on human beings. Therefore, we believe that taking into consideration product safety, occupational safety and health, and environmental impact through the proper management of chemical substances is an important responsibility.
Since fiscal 1999, SEKISUI CHEMICAL Group has set and worked toward its own targets for reducing emissions and the transfer of chemical substances in addition to implementing efforts such as the Product Assessment System for Environmental Impact^*1 and the Green Procurement System^*2. Periodically, we also review chemical substances, in accordance with the establishment and amendment of relevant laws and regulations.

In fiscal 2023, we will continue to engage in thoroughgoing chemical substance management activities conscious of the need to minimize their impact.

Aim: Reduce chemical emission and transport volumes

For details, see Environmental Management Promotion System.

SEKISUI CHEMICAL Group maintains the medium-term target of reducing VOC emissions by 3% or more compared with the level reported in fiscal 2019. In fiscal 2022, VOC emissions in Japan decreased by 17.1% compared with fiscal 2019.

SEKISUI CHEMICAL Group complies with laws and ordinances for equipment related to exhaust gases and water drainage.

SEKISUI CHEMICAL Group conducted a voluntary assessment of soil contamination at all of its production sites. The Group has implemented cleanup measures and efforts aimed at preventing further contamination at all locations where contamination was found while completing its report to the government. In addition, the Group continuously monitors groundwater, confirming that pollution is not spreading.
Moreover, the Group takes legally mandated decontamination measures when selling land on which production facilities have been closed. In fiscal 2022, conditions did not require any new measures to be taken.

Transformers and capacitors containing PCBs are being removed sequentially as PCB treatment facilities are ready to accept taking our equipment. Control of equipment containing PCBs in storage is strictly enforced, including locking of storage facilities and periodic inspections.
Steps are being taken to enhance awareness toward mandatory requirements regarding equipment that use fluorocarbons in accordance with Japan’s Act on Rational Use and Proper Management of Fluorocarbons (Freon Emission Control Act) and to ensure thoroughgoing management including periodic inspection.