Wal-Mart first to offer laptop that meets European hazwaste directive

Feb. 22 -- Wal-Mart Stores Inc. will be the first U.S. retailer to offer a laptop computer that meets a European directive restricting hazardous materials.

The retail giant worked with Toshiba America Information Systems Inc. to develop the Satellite A55-S1064 laptop, which meets the European Union´s Restriction on Hazardous Substance directive. The directive restricts the use of hazardous substances, such as lead, chromium and mercury, in electronics sold in European markets effective July 1.

Electronics sold in the United States do not have to meet the RoHS standard, but Wal-Mart has encouraged its suppliers to restrict the amount of hazardous material in their products, said John Kooy, Wal-Mart vice president of electronics. All personal computers Wal-Mart sells will meet the RoHS standard by July, he said.