Xerox

From the early 1980s, photocopier manufacturer Xerox has continuously worked to improve its corporate environmental performance. Xerox's environmental commitment was reinforced by the company's 'Leadership through Quality' program, which was launched to implement total quality management (TQM). The combination of environmental and quality initiatives has resulted in an environmental programme that represents the application of Total Quality Environmental Management principles.

In 1990 the Xerox 'Environmental Leadership' programme was formally approved by senior managers. This was communicated to all managers and employees by Paul Allaire, the CEO of Xerox, demonstrating the high level of management commitment to environmental protection. The emphasis of the programme was on pro-active environmental protection measures, and employee involvement in the implementation of new environmental initiatives.

At Xerox, the TQEM goal of continuous improvement remains in place until the virtual elimination of pollution and waste. 'Zero Defects', 'Zero Disposal' and 'Zero Pollution' are goals toward which Xerox strives in its quest for sustainability.