Asset cycle management-a total approach to product design for the environment

The recycle process that is being employed by Xerox Corporation is described. The emphasis of the process is total asset recovery management. At Xerox Corporation, the commitment is to design products, modules and parts from the start of design to the remanufactured immediately following launch or for the materials to be totally recycled at the end-of-life of the product. The goal of the Asset Recovery Management Program is to achieve 0% material being dispositioned to the landfill in order to minimize the impact on the environment. The authors describe the implementation of this program by outlining the principles used throughout the product development cycle from the concept phase to design, production, launch, remanufacture, and final recycle. Some of the tools which enable total asset management are covered, including design guidelines, specifications, quality, reliability requirements, product conversion, life cycle analysis, and end-of-life disposal or material recycling