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Policies & Principles

Microsoft follows strict policies to ensure that we are fully compliant with international environmental regulations and specific requirements in each country/region where we do business. However, we recognize that there is an opportunity for our company to do more than merely meet the regulatory minimums. Our leadership therefore endorses broad corporate environmental principles and is dedicated to software innovation for environmental sustainability. We also are committed to disclosing codes and standards about the materials used to manufacture our hardware products.

  • Environmental Sustainability Principles

    Microsoft actively works to protect our natural resources by developing safe and sustainable products, and making environmental stewardship part of our business relationships. Learn about these and other Microsoft environmental principles.

  • Environmental Sustainability Fact Sheet

    At Microsoft, we are committed to technology innovations that help people and organizations around the world improve the environment, and to reducing the impact of our operations and products.

  • Microsoft Corporation Product Compliance

    Microsoft requires its suppliers to conduct routine product material testing and to submit declarations of compliance with the EU RoHS Directive and other applicable requirements. We regularly audit our suppliers and manufacturers to ensure compliance.

  • EU WEEE and RoHS Directives Compliance

    Microsoft supports the proper recycling, recovery, and handling of waste associated with electronics. At a minimum, we implement strict policies to ensure that our products and packaging fully comply with the requirements of each government’s jurisdiction in which we do business.

  • Public Policy Statement on Climate Change

    Microsoft recognizes that climate change is a serious challenge that requires a comprehensive and global response. To address it, we are committed to measuring, transparently reporting, and reducing the carbon footprint of our operations.

  • Precautionary Principle for Consumer Electronics

    Microsoft is committed to phasing out the use of substances in our consumer hardware electronic products that pose a risk or possible risk to human health or the environment. Our starting point is the precautionary principle.

  • Restricted Substances for Hardware Products

    This document specifies restrictions on substances and materials used in the manufacture of Microsoft hardware products and equipment. This specification is applicable to all Microsoft hardware products and equipment unless specifically exempted by Microsoft.