ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on a project to reduce the packaging used within the European logistics function. This project was based on an analysis of costs over the whole of the relevant section of Xerox's logistics chain, which, in the context of logistics, is equivalent to product life-cycle costing. Xerox has a long history of 'unintentional environmental improvement' as a result of its leasing of its copiers. The totes project raised the endemic management issue of the appropriate balance between central planning and control on the one hand, and local autonomy and accountability on the other. The totes system was devised and developed by a cross-functional Quality Improvement Team. Xerox has an enviable reputation as one of the leaders in Western industry in quality management and continuous improvement. The experience of reprocessing and recycling copiers has taught Xerox the importance of understanding the full costs and benefits of environment-related activities.
