SMTA is co-sponsoring a new full-day workshop with Technology Forecasters, Inc. (TFI) and The GoodBye Chain Group entitledDesign for Environment (DfE) - Tools and Techniques for the Electronics Industry. With the growing number of extended producer responsibility (EPR) directives from the EU, China, Japan, United States, and other geographies, DfE practices are rapidly becomingmust-have tools. They provide manufacturers with a viable framework for incorporating environmental parameters like toxin-reduction (RoHS), increased recyclability (WEEE), and energy efficiency (EuP). In particular, this hands-on program will focus on best-practice methods for designing products to eliminate hazardous substances, meet reuse/recycling quotas, and reduce power consumption, including proven ways to reduce the cost of goods sold. It will also address strategies and examples of how DfE practices are being used today to increase revenues and to gain competitive advantage. Attendees will learn leading methodologies, strategies, and tools for design for environment. Through an alliance with the Centre for Sustainable Design, Mr. Graham Adams, who coordinates the SEEBA, the electronics program of the Centre, will lead the program. Pam Gordon, president of Technology Forecasters, and Harvey Stone, managing director of The GoodBye Chain Group, will provide additional case study examples from their work with customers in the US and abroad. Topics #NAME? - Impact of environmental legislation on product design (WEEE, RoHS, and EuP directives). #NAME? #NAME? - Technology management (lead-free + materials). #NAME? #NAME? #NAME? #NAME? Attendees are encouraged to bring a product sample for hands-on disassembly experience. AER Worldwide is hosting the first Design for Environment workshop at their recycling facility in Fremont, CA, on February 27. Further workshops are scheduled for April 6 in Phoenix, AZ; June 7 in San Diego, CA; and July 13 in Boston, MA. This workshop is intended for OEM, EMS, ODM, and supplier companies. Specific functions that will benefit from the program include product design and DfE support, engineering, new product introduction, marketing, and environmental management. For more information, visit the Symposia page of the Education Events section on smta.org. http://www.smta.org/education/symposia/symposia.cfm Alternatively, contact SMTA educational programs coordinator Melissa Serres: melissa@smta.org or 952-920-7682. For more information about Technology Forecasters, Inc. and The GoodBye Chain Group visit their Web sites. http://www.techforecasters.comand http://www.goodbyechain.com