Corporate Environmental Report

Product and technology

Design products for decreased energy consumption and for enablement of more energy efficient applications

As a broad range semiconductor manufacturer our aim is to make products that are energy-efficient when used. Where possible, our designs comply with the US Energy Star programs, a government-backed energy efficiency initiative for electronic products. The chart below identifies the areas where energy efficiency gains can be made.

Examples

Lifecycle studies of mobile phones show that most power is used by the charger, especially when the device remains connected when the battery is fully charged. A stand-by feature on the charger - using an ST solution - disconnects the power when the battery is charged, producing considerable savings. For example, if the new solution was used on the 300 million mobile phones sold in 2000, about 49 GWh of electricity could have been saved - enough to power a town of 10,000 people.

ST produces a range of solutions for the automotive sector, including integrated circuits for engine control, electronic fuel injection, ignition, airbags, electronic power steering and ABS braking systems.

Electronically activated valves, powered by ST devices will soon replace traditional mechanical versions. ST is developing electronic systems designed to optimize engine performance, significantly reducing pollution. Primarily with our Japanese partners, we are involved in developing hybrid cars that use both an electric and thermal engine.