Epson goes greener 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.
Craig Heckenberg, Epson Australia's Professional Graphics Business Unit Manager, welcomes these changes.
"Epson actively strives to provide products and services in a manner that fully supports our corporate philosophy of protecting the earth's environment. This announcement to change the packaging for our large format ink cartridges is another example of our commitment to protecting the environment," said Craig.
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.