Our Impact
Responsible Mineral Sourcing Policy
Responsible Mineral Sourcing Policy at Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd.
The issues surrounding minerals such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold, cobalt, and mica—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.
Responsible Mineral Sourcing Policy of Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd.
Panasonic Automotive recognizes that the procurement of tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold , cobalt, mica from states in conflict areas and other high-risk areas, may inadvertently fund organizations involved in bribery and other unlawful activities, which is a socially grave concern.
In order to make its activities on the issues more clearly, Industry Company formulates the Responsible Procurement of Minerals Policy and publishes it to the Panasonic Automotive Web site as below.
- We establish an internal control structure and management system for responsible procurement of minerals, based on the OECD Due Diligence Guidance.
- We adopt a survey sheet of RMI (Responsible Minerals Initiative), which is the industry standard, and conduct surveys and risk assessments and analysis by tracing back through supply chains in cooperation with Tier 1 suppliers.
- If a risk is identified, we develop a corrective plan and implement measures to minimize risk.
- We respond to requests from customers and other stakeholders and report on the risks identified based on evaluation standards and implement corrective measures if necessary.
Our policy is reviewed regularly and updated in response to changes in international standards and societal needs. We will deepen dialogue with suppliers and promote awareness and effective actions across the entire supply chain.
