Companies are swiftly transitioning towards sustainable practices, endeavoring to mitigate their environmental footprint while contributing to the safeguarding of our planet. One sector that has long been under scrutiny for its ecological impact is printing technology.

Mukesh Bector, Epson Regional Head, East and West Africa, elucidates the company’s commitment to sustainability in an exclusive interview with Capital Business.

What is Epson’s definition of a sustainable printing solution?

Epson’s definition of sustainable printing solutions transcends mere technological advancement. It encompasses an integrative approach that addresses pressing environmental challenges, champions resource management, and embraces innovation. The company recognizes the transformational potential of sustainability in an increasingly competitive landscape and acknowledges its role as a catalyst for innovation.

To embody its commitment to sustainability, Epson has instituted significant changes in printing paradigms. Notably, the company has pioneered the adoption of a printing process devoid of heat, thereby drastically minimizing its environmental impact. This move resonates with its aspiration to curtail the ecological consequences of conventional printing activities.

What is Epson’s perspective on the role of a sustainable printing industry in minimizing ink and paper waste, along with energy use?

Epson’s acknowledgement of the profound importance of a sustainable printing industry is reflected in its concerted efforts to curb ink, paper, and energy waste. This commitment permeates the company’s printer designs and lifecycle management strategies, fostering a holistic approach to sustainability.

The crux of this approach lies in improving sustainability across printers’ lifecycles. Epson endeavors to enhance printer sustainability and reduce their overall environmental impact through measures such as extending printers’ service lives, designing them with efficiency in mind, and facilitating repair and replacement. Epson also raises awareness about responsible electronic waste management through education and collaboration with local stakeholders.

A notable shift in this direction is Epson’s strategic transition to inkjet technology, with plans to cease global sales and distribution of laser printers by 2026. Inkjet technology, renowned for its energy efficiency, aligns seamlessly with Epson’s sustainability vision. Additionally, Epson’s inkjet printers boast a compact footprint, facilitating eco-conscious production and shipping.

These inkjet printers use Epson’s micro piezo, heat Free technology that does not need heat to fuse the ink to the paper, it instead uses pressure, requiring less energy to print.

They also print up to 50% faster from ready compared with laser printers so aren’t running for as long as their laser counterparts. This reduces energy costs for users as less energy is used in the printing process depending on which Epson printer you’re using; inkjet technology can be up to 90% more energy efficient than laser technology.

High-yield ink cartridges

Epson’s high-capacity ink tank printers [EcoTanks] are another facet of Epson’s sustainable ethos, contributing to waste reduction and resource conservation. In contrast to laser printers, Epson’s inkjet counterparts boast fewer moving and consumable parts, translating to diminished service and maintenance needs over a printer’s lifespan. This translates to heightened productivity, reduced downtime, and improved user satisfaction.

EcoTanks are a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to the traditional ink cartridge printers. All are equipped with a refillable ink tank and come with up to three years’ worth of ink that can print up to 14,000 pages. One set of ink bottles is equivalent to 79 cartridges. EcoTank printers provide prints at about one-tenth the cost when compared to laser printers. Epson has sold more than 70 million EcoTanks worldwide since their launch in 2010. Because they require no ink cartridges, EcoTank removes the need for production, shipping and end-of-life management or disposal of cartridges.

Can you mention some of Epson’s eco-friendly products or solutions in printing and visual technology?

Epson’s commitment to sustainability is palpable through its myriad of eco-friendly solutions and products, each emblematic of the company’s conscientious approach to environmental preservation.

PaperLab: Epson’s pioneering PaperLab stands as the world’s premier in-office, water-free secure paper recycler. By enabling businesses to recycle paper within their premises, PaperLab reduces reliance on external recycling services and transportation emissions, simultaneously conserving water resources and promoting sustainable paper management practices.

WorkForce Business Inkjet Printers: These printers, leveraging Heat-Free and Micro Piezo Technology, amplify productivity, energy savings, and waste reduction. By transitioning to inkjet technology, Epson contributes to energy conservation and material efficiency, thereby championing a more sustainable approach to printing.

Heat-Free PrecisionCore Inkjet Printers: Recognized with the 2022 DataMaster Lab GREEN Award, these printers underscore Epson’s commitment to eco-friendliness. The technology epitomizes sustainable development from inception to distribution, highlighting the company’s dedication to minimizing environmental impact.

EcoTank Ink Tank Printers: Epson’s EcoTank printers epitomize a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ink cartridge counterparts. By eliminating the need for cartridges and prolonging ink supply, Epson curtails production, shipping, and disposal of consumables, furthering its waste reduction endeavors.

Epson Moverio Augmented Reality [AR] Industrial Smart Glasses: These smart glasses redefine remote assistance and training, substantially reducing the need for experts to travel for maintenance or support. This innovation curtails carbon emissions associated with travel, aligning with Epson’s sustainability pursuits.

Digital Textile Technology: Epson’s digital textile solutions foster sustainable practices in the fashion industry, exemplifying water reduction and material efficiency. By empowering fashion designers to produce on-demand, high-quality prints, Epson promotes sustainability in an industry historically plagued by waste.

How does Epson envision the future of sustainable printing?

Epson’s vision for sustainable printing entails an unwavering commitment to imbuing sustainability into all facets of its operations. The company envisages a future where sustainability is not merely an adjunct but an inherent aspect of business strategies. Epson recognizes the transformative potential of technology in driving sustainability and envisions a paradigm shift towards a circular economy model, underpinned by proactive sustainability measures.

In the face of climate change urgency, Epson remains steadfast in its dedication to sustainability. The company’s collaboration with entities like the National Geographic Society underscores its resolve to combat climate change and drive meaningful environmental change. Epson is cognizant of the dual nature of economic demands and environmental action, emphasizing the need for unwavering focus on environmental challenges.

What are the obstacles associated with integrating eco-friendly printing solutions and products?

Educating consumers about the significance of eco-friendly printing solutions is another hurdle. The transition necessitates changes in infrastructure, supply chain processes, and compliance with evolving environmental standards. Convincing customers to embrace new practices in a market dominated by convention is a multifaceted task that requires continuous effort.

Despite these challenges, Epson’s commitment to sustainability remains resolute. By embracing eco-friendly printing solutions, organizations can bolster their commitment to environmental preservation, redefine industry norms, and catalyze a future defined by sustainability and responsible resource management.

In conclusion, Epson stands at the vanguard of a sustainable printing revolution. Their multifaceted approach, from inkjet technology adoption to innovative products like PaperLab and Moverio smart glasses, embodies their commitment to sustainability. As the world collectively strives for a greener future, Epson’s endeavors underscore the transformative power of industry leaders in shaping a more sustainable world.