All products, have some impact on the environment, which may occur at any or all stages of the product's life cycle: raw material acquisition, manufacture, distribution, use and disposal. The interest of customers, users, developers and others in the environmental aspects and impacts of products is increasing. This interest is reflected in discussions among business, consumers, governments and non-governmental organizations concerning sustainable development, eco-efficiency, design for the environment, product stewardship, international agreements, trade measures, national legislation, and government or sector based voluntary initiatives. More organizations are coming to realize that there are substantial benefits in integrating environmental aspects into product design and development. Some of these benefits may include: lower costs, stimulation of innovation, new business opportunities, and improved product quality. Anticipating or identifying the environmental aspects of a product throughout its life cycle may be complex. It is important to consider its function within the context of the system where it will be used. A product's environmental aspects must also be balanced against other factors, such as the product's intended function, performance, safety and health, cost, marketability, quality, and legal and regulatory requirements. The process of integrating environmental aspects into product design and development is continual and flexible, promoting creativity and maximizing innovation and opportunities for environmental improvement. As a basis for this integration, environmental issues may be addressed in the policies and strategies of the organization involved.