The Swedish car manufacturer, SAAB is stringent about environmental protection, recognizes and shares a strong concern for the environment, and works to preserve unspoiled nature. In 1990, the Volatile Organic Chemical emissions in SAAB vehicles were 13.4 kg/car and, in 2000, 2.4 kg/car. The manufacturer has also shown a diminution in water used in the production process with 1.6 m3/car in 1997 and 1.4 m3/car in 1999. SAAB also uses an Environmental Management System in accordance with ISO 14001.

The European Union's Directive demands that the producer shall meet all, or a significant part of the cost for treatment of ELVs by 2002 for new vehicles and 2007 for all vehicles. SAAB followed Swedish Producer Responsibility and began accepting responsibility in1998 for new vehicles. The EU's Directive now asks that economic operators shall set up systems for collection, dismantling and recycling. These systems have been in place in Sweden since 1975.

SAAB is taking efforts to meet the ELV Directive and Swedish Producer Responsibility by banning heavy metals, assuring recyclability, and by assuring that there is adequate recycling infrastructure, all in a cost-effective manner. 

SAAB automobile industry is highly aware and competent in environmental issues and is interested in meeting consumers’ environmental demands. The EPR is a complex issue where all operators must be involved and the Swedish ELV system is a good example.