Calculation

P5: Restricted substances content of products = Sum for each product (Weight of a product unit x Proportion of restricted substances in product x Units produced)  / Sum for each product (Weight of a product unit x Units produced)  x 100

Unit of the indicator: percent

Why this indicator is important

Many products depend on the inclusion of substances that are harmful to people or the environment if released. Normally, the release of the substances is avoided in the design of the product and in its end-of-life treatment (e.g., disassembly and recycling). The definition of “restricted substance” is often used generally applied in national or regional legislation.

This indicator measures the proportion of restricted substances in all products produced during the reference year.

 

Interpretation

This indicator will typically show a very small percentage.

Reducing or eliminating restricted substances in products will ensure less impact of the product during its use and end-of-life phase.

While it is not always possible to avoid restricted substances, reviewing the detailed data collected will help identify products and materials that contribute most to this indicator. In cases where it is impossible to avoid restricted substances, care should be taken to establish programmes, such as take-back or recycling, to manage such products.

Related issues

As with several other product indicators, this does not take into account the possible effect on the quality of the product due to the reduction of restricted substances (such as eliminating lead from solder in electronic devices).