The impact of environmental issues on the UK printed circuit board industry

The need for environmentally responsible manufacturing is forcing industry to change the way it produces its products and offers its services. This is evident in the electronics industry and especially so in the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing sector. PCB manufacture requires numerous chemical processes and materials, many of which contain chemicals that can be difficult to dispose of and harmful to the environment. With growing awareness of environmental issues and stricter legislation, the treatment and disposal of these materials can have a significant cost impact on the profitability of UK producers. This article discusses some of the environmental challenges facing the industry and highlights the fact that improvements in environmental performance can actually be used to commercial advantage