ASUS, a world-leading company in the new digital era, has been a staunch supporter of environmentally-friendly computing. Staring from 2000, ASUS has initiated the GreenASUS project, which focuses on four Green Home Runs-Green Design, Green Procurement, Green Manufacturing, and Green Service and Marketing. Since then, ASUS has constantly strived to in its efforts to be more environmentally-friendly. In 2004, ASUS launched the world first lead-free motherboard, and phased in lead-free manufacturing process to all product lines. This year, ASUS will be the first in the IT industry to launch Halogen-free product processes across its major product lines.

ASUS Initiates Halogen-free Processes in 2009
In the first quarter of 2009, ASUS will become pioneers in the IT industry with the launch of halogen-free processes across its major product portfolio. Products from its component to system product lines including: motherboards, notebooks, Eee PC, LCD monitors, graphic cards, servers and mobile phones. ASUS will expend massive efforts to phase in the Halogen-free process dependent upon the availability of economically viable and safe substitutes. In addition, ASUS will invest heftily in phasing in these processes in 2009; with the first Halogen-free products to include: the ASUS-Lamborghini VX5 notebook, the P5Q Deluxe motherboard, the EAH3650 Silent graphics card, the VK193T LCD monitor, the P565 handheld, the Z8PE-D12X serverboard, and the Eee PC 900A. ASUS will also continue to add more Halogen-free models to its portfolio.

Importance of Halogen-free Products
Halogen contains two hazardous elements-Bromin and Chlorine, widely used in electronic materials as Brominated Flame Retardant or Chlorinated Flame Retardant. During recycling processes, burning electronic waste containing these two hazardous chemicals will generate a huge amount of corrosive toxic gases. If people absorb or are exposed to these toxic gases, these toxins will be stored in the body's lipids, and will not be broken down. In the long run, these toxins are health endangering, and cause the formation of tumors, carcinogenesis, and deformity in the body. Most electronic waste is often shipped to developing countries, where needy children will sift through eWaste. In order to extract the valuable metals, they need to burn away excess PVC and plastics. This is when the toxic gas is released undetected; and will pollute the environment and endanger the people living in the vicinity. ASUS thus feels that corporate responsibility to the environment is a top priority.

ASUS Spurs Green Computing Revolution with Bamboo Series Notebook
In 2008, ASUS has taken a very aggressive stance in contributing more to the environment. With its constant drive towards environmentally-friendly products like the launching of the GreenASUS concept design Bamboo Series notebook in August, 2008, ASUS has been garnered with the EPEAT Gold Awards in Oct, the EU Flower certification in Nov, and EuP certification in Dec.

The launch of the ASUS Bamboo Series Notebook underlines the commitment to, and leadership in, the drive towards environmentally-friendly technology. This groundbreaking bamboo-clad product focuses on being truly green throughout every phase of its life - from its conception, production and use to its eventual recycling and disposal. ASUS staff at all levels leveraged the full spectrum of environmental expertise that the company has accumulated since 2000 when it initiated its GreenASUS drive - before the RoHS and WEEE directives were enforced.