As a part of its efforts to protect and preserve the environment, which encompass global warming and resource depletion concerns, the Chiba Factory consistently strives to improve its production processes and activities with the aim of reducing its environmental load. In 2008, we introduced a cogeneration system (CGS) ? an efficient energy supply system to supply energy and heat by recovering waste heat from internal combustion ? as a part of efforts to conserve both natural resources and energy. Looking ahead, the Chiba Factory will work diligently to strike a harmonious balance between technology and the environment by redoubling its endeavors in these and other areas.

Focusing on both water discharge pollution load indices as well as the volume of waste water discharge, the Chiba Factory has established and manages specific environmental goals relating particularly to chemical oxygen demand (COD) and phosphorous emissions.

First set in fiscal 2003, we identified an annual COD emission target of two tons or less. This target was achieved in fiscal 2008, with COD emissions totaling 1.19 tons. With respect to its goals regarding phosphorous emissions, the Chiba Factory again achieved its prescribed requirement in fiscal 2008. Working to hold phosphorous emissions under 900 kg each year, we recorded an amount totaling 630 kg.

Under the overarching goal of "zero emissions," the Chiba Factory is actively engaged in activities aimed at eliminating final landfill disposal. The following is an explanation of the zero emission performance index, which the Chiba Factory has successfully achieved. Zero Emission Performance = (Final Landfill Amount ÷ Amount of Industrial Waste Generated) x 100 = Under 0.5%

The Chiba Factory has established specific reduction targets with respect to the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) produced in the normal course of its production activities.

This target is to reduce CO2 emissions by 10% by fiscal 2010 compared with the level of emissions in fiscal 1990.

In fiscal 2008, the Chiba Factory achieved a reduction level up to 21.3%, or 20,600 tons compared with the level in fiscal 1990.

Taking into consideration the future upswing in CO2 emissions attributable to an increase in production output and related factors, the Chiba Factory will work to promote improvement activities focusing specifically on energy conservation endeavors coupled with the reduction of CO2 emissions.

Buoyed by successful efforts to manage and improve its safety and health activities, the Chiba Factory reported an onsite accident-free year in fiscal 2008 which included resident employees as well as subcontractors. Turning to fiscal 2009, we will continue to improve our safety and health activities with the aim of again reporting an accident-free year.

Plaque commemorating a completely accident-free 2008

As a member of the local business association, specifically the Kitasode Factory Liaison Council, the Chiba Factory actively participates in various municipality- and neighborhood community association-sponsored events. In addition, we take part in sea-side district cleanup activities organized by Sodegaura City as well as beautification projects of the greenbelt area and secondary road that services the local industrial complex.

Ms. Saito of Chiba Factory's Business Department
participated as Fire Chief for the day in a fire fighting festival
organized by the City of Sodegaura on November 15, 2008.