Acknowledging that the actions we take today will have an impact on our world of tomorrow is the principle on which Sustainable Development is based. Acting in a manner that does not limit the range of economic, social and environmental options available to future generations is the challenge for 21st century society.PGMs and the industries associated with them are making a significant contribution in this arena. They already represent an important part of modern life and are being used to provide safe and environmentally sustainable products.

If you're reading this from a laptop computer screen, the glass is probably made using PGM equipment, and the disks in your hard drive are coated with the PGM metals. When you're out driving, PGMs ensure that your airbag operates properly and that the catalytic converter reduces your exhaust emissions.As you and your family sleep at night, the smoke detector that will alert you to the risk of fire, relies on PGMs.And if you're ever faced with the tragedy of you or one of your loved ones developing cancer, then it could be PGMs that will be at the forefront of treatment.

Improving Lives describes the many ways in which PGMs are making a positive contribution to the global drive for integrated environmental protection. It explains how innovative solutions in the fields of technology, healthcare and the environment are being made possible by the platinum group metals.