On the other Energy criteria it scores points for a clean energy policy that advocates that the Japanese government expands its use of renewable energy, and stresses the importance of setting a strong feed-in tariff. Sharp receives points for disclosing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but lacks a clear absolute GHG emissions reduction target. The company needs to set ambitious targets to reduce emissions by at least 30% by 2015 for its operations.

Sharp scores most of its points on the Products criteria for the energy efficiency of its products, reporting that all of its TVs meet the latest Energy Star standard, with 90% exceeding the requirements for sleep mode. Sharp has many products that are free from polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC) but looks to be backtracking on this commitment. Sharp’s internal green products certification standards no longer include the requirement “uses no halogenated flame retardants, uses polyvinyl chloride substitutes”. Sharp needs to communicate the dates when new products will be free of PVC, phthalates, brominated frame retardants (BFRs) and antimony. The company reports on use of recycled plastics, stating 8% of its plastic is used and has set a new target of using 2,000 tonnes by fiscal year 2015. Sharp does not publicly disclose the length of warranty and spare parts availability for its main product lines.

Sharp scores least points on the Sustainable Operations criteria. Sharp is the only company that supports a 20% collection target under Indian e-waste rules, among all global companies. Sharp needs to expand its take-back programme beyond OECD countries, especially where e-waste recycling legislation is not likely, or it risks losing additional points on this criteria in the future. Sharp lacks significant initiatives in implementing a chemicals management programme, disclosing commitments to phase out hazardous substances, and excluding suppliers involved in deforestation and illegal logging.

Sharp's performance in detail: Download the company’s Scorecard here