The issues surrounding minerals such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold, and cobalt—risking association with child labor and human rights violations, poor working conditions, environmental destruction, and corruption in conflict-affected and high-risk countries—are one of the significant issues in CSR. To clarify our specific efforts, Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd. has independently formulated a 'Responsible Mineral Procurement Policy' to promote the non-use of problematic minerals, fulfilling our corporate social responsibilities and securing customer trust.

What is “Responsible Mineral Sourcing”? Responsible mineral sourcing refers to fulfilling social responsibility in the procurement of minerals. In July 2010, the U.S. Dodd-Frank Act introduced Section 1502, requiring U.S.-listed companies to annually disclose whether conflict minerals are financing armed groups in conflict regions. In recent years, concerns have also been raised about human rights violations, such as child labor, and environmental destruction in mining operations. As a result, companies are now expected to practice responsible mineral sourcing, which involves avoiding not only links to conflicts but also human rights abuses, poor working conditions, environmental damage, and corruption.