ABSTRACT
This chapter draws on successful examples of "product stewardship in action" to show how companies that take a strategic, systematic approach can reduce the life-cycle impacts of their products while building business value, for example by reducing costs, improving access to raw materials or building customer loyalty. It presents a strategic approach to product stewardship from a corporate perspective. The chapter draws on the experience of leading companies and stewardship organizations. It highlights the potential for product stewardship to achieve shared value outcomes, i.e. environmental or social benefits, as well as direct business outcomes. Product stewardship is no longer a discretionary activity confined to businesses that want to "do the right thing". There is growing government and consumer interest in the social and environmental impacts of products, from their supply chain through to end of life. The chapter considers each of the three drivers for product stewardship individually: stakeholders, product research and business priorities.
