In addition to the immediate and obvious benefits of improved health, safety, and environmental protection, Product Stewardship has additional, less immediately measurable benefits over the long term, including:
Goodwill – Product Stewardship, like the Responsible Care Program as a whole, promotes active involvement with stakeholders: employees, suppliers, customers, shareholders, and others whose goodwill is essential to our business. These relationships have value in the best of times, but they are never more critical than when problems arise that challenge our company's reputation.
Increased Productivity – Those who see tangible evidence of the company's commitment to their own health and safety - and that of others - and who are themselves actively involved in Product Stewardship, are more productive, more supportive of company-wide goals, and better company "ambassadors" in their communities.
Enhanced Credibility – Regulatory authorities and elected officials are more willing to grant a fair hearing when they understand the extent of our commitment to protect human health, safety and the environment.
Cost Savings – Investment in health, safety and environmental protection early in the product life cycle may pre-empt far greater expenditure for remediation or other corrective measures.
Competitive Advantages – Product Stewardship anticipates and addresses increasing demand for safer, more environmentally sound products - demands that translate into sales. Product Stewardship also involves strengthening relationships with customers, thus improving the quality and timeliness of market information.
Reduced Liability – Because of its focus on customer education and involvement, an effective Product Stewardship initiative should help to reduce our future liability claims. Similarly, the active participation of contract manufacturers, distributors, suppliers and employees should help ensure the proper handling of raw materials and finished products, thus mitigating potential liabilities.
