Ericsson met the July 1, 2006 compliance deadline for the European Union (EU) Directive on Restrictions on the use of certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is due to a rigorous process to ensure that the entire product portfolio met the restrictions. During 2007, work will continue to successively reduce the use of EU-approved exemptions. By 2008, all RoHS substances will be phased out globally.

Ericsson's Ecology Management Provision, part of its environmental management system, covers all electronic waste both from customer and internal operations, and has done so since 2002. Ericsson is compliant with the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, which came into effect in August 2005. The Directive guided establishment of the Provision, although Ericsson's program is global and includes all products in all markets.

In 2006, Ericsson joined the UN StEP (Solving the E-Waste Problem) initiative to standardize recycling processes globally, extend the life of products and markets for reuse, and harmonize legislative approaches.

Ericsson's Design for Environment program sets guidelines for developing products with improved environmental performance and reduced impacts. Priorities in 2007 include design for recyclability, a reduction of energy consumption and lead-free soldering.