Epson reduces environmental impact with new ink cartridge packaging
Reflecting Epson's commitment to protecting the environment, the company will replace the current packaging for its large format ink cartridges to a more environmentally sound, standardised packaging from December 2006.
Epson's white ink cartridge packaging will be replaced with recycled brown (kraft) cardboard, increasing the proportion of recycled pulp in the packaging from 80% to 100%.
In addition large format ink cartridge packaging will be standardised across the world, reducing the 154 types of packaging to three types (for 110ml, 220ml and a combined 110/220ml ink cartridges).
A reduction in chemical use will be achieved by changing package printing from colour to black and white. The ink cartridge casings themselves will be produced in a natural colour, effectively eliminating dyes and reducing fabrication processes.
These changes are one of the outcomes of Epson's ongoing research into the environmental impact of all aspects of its operations, from product development to packaging.
According to Epson, it actively strives to provide products and services in a manner that fully supports its corporate philosophy of protecting the earth's environment. This announcement to change the packaging for Epson’s large format ink cartridges is another example of its commitment to protecting the environment.
The Australian models to use the new packaging specifications and natural colour ink cartridges are the Stylus Pro 9800, Stylus Pro 9400, Stylus Pro 7800, Stylus Pro 7400, Stylus Pro 4800, Stylus Pro 4400, Stylus Pro 9600, Stylus Pro 7600 and Stylus Pro 4000. These products will progressively switch to the new specifications as existing stock is sold out.
Epson Australia is fully committed to reducing environmental impact by implementing environmentally sound business and operational practices. In November 2004, Epson Australia was awarded the Silver Energy Smart Green Globe Milestone Award, in recognition for implementing energy efficient upgrades across no less than 50% of its operations.
Epson Australia is also a founding member of Cartridges for Planet Ark, which aims to reduce some of the 5000 tonnes of cartridges going to landfill each year by remanufacturing or recycling laser and inkjet cartridges.
Worldwide, Epson achieved zero emissions, a 100% recycling rate at all production points in 2003.
- New brown cardboard packaging is 100% recycled material.
- Packaging will be standardised across the world - 154 types of packaging will be reduced to three.
- Printing on packaging will now be black and white, reducing chemical use.
- Grey ink cartridge casings will be replaced with a natural colour, eliminating dyes and reducing fabrication processes.
- Australian models to use the new packaging and ink cartridges are the Stylus Pro 9800, Stylus Pro 9400, Stylus Pro 7800, Stylus Pro 7400, Stylus Pro 4800, Stylus Pro 4400, Stylus Pro 9600, Stylus Pro 7600 and Stylus Pro 4000.
- New specifications will be introduced progressively as existing stock is sold out.
27-Feb-2007