Environmental Ethics

‘Ecology’ and ‘Economy’ are frameworks for describing what is happening in our world. But we have
no guide to public action without ‘Ethics’. Ethics tells us what we should do, how we should act.
Environmental ethics is the part of environmental philosophy which considers the ethical relationship
between human beings and the natural environment. Regardless of whether one is working indoors or
outdoors, it is important to consider the potential adverse environmental effects of one’s activity and
do what is possible to avoid or minimize unwanted environmental consequences.
In this paper we will discuss a company which proved to be one of the best examples who initiated
and practiced environmental ethics. Also, we will see the result and benefits that the company
obtained by following and practicing this ethics.
Case Study – NOKIA India
Overview and Objective
Nokia started its operations in Nokia Telecom Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Chennai, at the start
of 2006. The park expanded during 2007, with suppliers opening operations, making phone covers
and chargers amongst other components. Expansion continues in 2008, with the total number of
people employed expected to double by the end of the year. The vision of the Nokia Telecom SEZ is
to be an environmental role model.
Actions Initiated
To make this vision a reality Nokia set up the Nokia SEZ Environmental Team (NSET) in December
2006, including environmental managers from all seven companies in the park as well as Nokia.
NSET’s key role is to manage environmental issues across the park companies, co-create
environmental solutions, share information and best practices among the companies. This involves
identifying environmental risks, developing common action, key indicators and reporting.
1. To start with each supplier, respective company was required by Nokia to carry out an
Environmental Impact Assessment (even though this was a legal requirement for only one of the
supplier companies).
2. Following the assessments, each company developed an environmental plan which was approved
by Nokia’s environmental manager.
3. The implementation of these environmental plans is monitored through audits carried by the Park
environmental manager.
4. The NSET team also liaises with the authorities and with other local industries on environmental
issues.
Actions Practiced
1. As the law prohibits the transport of certain hazardous waste across state boundaries and out of
the country for management and also due to lack of adequate recycling infrastructure, it was
essential for Nokia Telecom SEZ to set up waste management solutions. As a result, Nokia
Telecom SEZ adopted a zero water discharge approach i.e. no industrial wastewater is discharged
from any of the park companies. The companies recycle any industrial waste-water that they
generate.
a. Domestic wastewater is treated in a common sewage treatment plant and recycled for use in
flushing and gardening.
b. Rainwater is also collected in a pond in the park for use.
Result
Throughout 2007 Nokia Telecom SEZ maintained water consumption below their target of 40 litres
per person per day.