Intel is to strengthen its environmental effort by removing lead from all its future processors, beginning with its entire family of 45nm processors.

The Intel 45nm Hi-k family includes the next-generation Intel Core 2 Duo, Core 2 Quad and Xeon processors. Intel will begin 45nm Hi-k production in the second half of this year.

“Intel is taking an aggressive stance toward environmental sustainability, from the elimination of lead and a focus on greater energy efficiency of our products, to fewer air emissions and more water and materials recycling,” said Nasser Grayeli, Intel v-p and director of assembly test technology development.

In 2008, the company will also move its 65nm chipset products to 100% lead-free technology.