Micrel Inc., a provider of power, connect and protect IC solutions, recently announced that its wafer fabrication facility has been certified to ISO14001:1996, the International Environmental Management System Standard. The company’s certification was issued Dec. 14, 2004, after an audit by TUV America. The goal of the environmental management system is to ensure regulatory compliance and to reduce environmental impact through waste reduction and recycling.
“Micrel is quite pleased that we are able to help the environment while improving efficiencies relating to several key areas within the fab,” noted Guy Gandenberger, vice president of wafer fab operations, Micrel. As one of the only domestic semiconductor manufacturers to maintain local state-of-the-art fabrication facilities, Micrel has focused on continuously improving its quality, safety and environmental practices. As a result, the company has significantly reduced water and electrical consumption.
Micrel’s environmental initiatives have also resulted in the company being recognized for its Environmental Management System by customers. For example, Micrel was awarded "Green Partner" status by Sony Corp. To ensure compliance with the European directive on the restriction of use of hazardous substances (ROHS) and other similar regulations, Micrel is committed to providing customers lead-free products. Currently, the vast majority of Micrel products may be ordered in lead-free versions.
More information about Micrel's Environmental Management System and lead-free products can be found at www.micrel.com.
