Two environment-related accidents
concerning production occurred, as shown in the table. Immediate measures
and cross developments have been taken to prevent reoccurrence, including
improvement of facilities and a review of management from the perspective
of EMS requirements. In addition, there was one report regarding water
pollution from local residents relating to household well water containing
trichloroethylene levels 137 times above the environmental standard.
With regard to products, there were no product recalls resulting
primarily from environmental issues.
In litigation concerning the health effects of automobile exhaust
emissions in Tokyo, the trial court handed down a decision in October
2002 denying liability on the part of auto manufacturers, but the
plaintiffs appealed. The appeal is currently pending. In the United
States, litigation concerning certification procedures for fuel evaporative
emission leak monitors was settled in March 2003 with Toyota's agreement
with federal authorities for an extension of warranty, accelerated
regulatory compliance, and contribution of funds to environmental
projects. |
