Fujitsu Siemens Computers has announced the launch of an
environment-friendly notebook that meets new EU requirements
restricting the use of hazardous substances.
The Professional Notebook AMILO Pro V2030 Edition complies with
the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive, due to
come into force in July next year – the first notebook to meet the
requirements.
The RoHS standards, drawn up to protect the environment and
human health, specify that electrical and electronic equipment
shipped to or purchased in EU member states must not contain
hazardous substances such as lead, mercury or cadmium.
A discussion paper from the department of trade and industry has
suggested penalties of up to three months in prison and/or a fine
of up to £5,000 for breach of the regulations, which apply to
“producers” – anyone who manufactures, sells, resells, imports or
exports electrical and electronic equipment.
Fujitsu Siemens already offers RoHS-compliant PCs, while
products in its ESPRIMO Professional PC series will meet the
standard by January 2006. The company said it was on track to make
the rest of its professional notebook range compliant by the end of
the year.
The AMILO Pro V2030 Edition notebook, designed for standard
office applications, is available from £437.