Manufacturing a drive system is not a polluting activity in itself as may be the case, for example, in the chemical industry where sophisticated systems must be set up to control pollution. The environmental approach of Leroy-Somer, started in the early 1990s, was initiated following discussions on how to most effectively manage the waste generated by the different production sites, the aim being to reduce costs and promote protection of the environment. This approach was gradually extended to cover all the potential effects of manufacturing activities: management of water and energy resources, emissions in the air and discharges into watercourses, noise levels etc. At the same time, major initiatives were undertaken to ensure that plant were compliant with the complex and numerous regulations in force. In 1999, Leroy-Somer's management decided to formalise this approach on all production sites by implementing an internal Environmental Management System (EMS). The objective of this mechanism is to measure and continuously improve the progress made in each area. As a natural result of this approach, Leroy-Somer has now been awarded ISO 14001: 2004 certification on all its production sites in France. More than ever, Leroy-Somer is determined to adopt mechanisms that ensure global sustainable development.