As Environmental, Social and Governance [ESG] gains momentum globally, Epson strengthens its position as sustainability leader by using innovative technology alongside thoughtful investments in an era where ecological responsibility matters most. Epson is committed to achieving carbon negativity and underground resource freedom as part of its 2050 sustainability initiative, driving industry transformation through social and environmental initiatives.
As part of these extensive target goals Epson will dedicate 100 billion yen [KES 85 Billion] to reducing supply chain greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions by 55% while aiming to eliminate all of their Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030. Epson marked a historical first among Japanese manufacturers by establishing full renewable electricity usage throughout all its worldwide sites by the end of 2023.
Business to be Bold
“We believe businesses must take bold steps to address climate change,” says Mukesh Bector, Epson’s Regional Head for East and West Africa. “Our transition to renewable energy and commitment to reducing GHG emissions align with our broader sustainability vision. This is not just about meeting goals-it’s about setting new industry standards.”
Epson’s technologies operate under proprietary specifications to implement sustainable production methods. The organisation applies automation technology with robotics and force sensors to improve productivity while maintaining quality by minimising manual labour. The use of vibration sensors helps businesses optimise equipment performance and streamline maintenance, addressing the shortage of skilled professionals in factories.
“Our innovations in manufacturing ensure that we not only reduce waste but also enhance efficiency,” says Bector. “By integrating smart technology into our production lines, we are moving towards a more sustainable future while maintaining high-quality standards.”
Promoting Equity in Education
Epson prioritises not only industrial sustainability but also social equity programmes, especially through educational initiatives. By developing portable projectors, the company enables underserved communities to benefit from big-screen audiovisual technology that enhances educational opportunities. These projectors support mobile learning programmes in remote areas without electricity, helping more students access digital learning tools.
“Education is a fundamental right, yet millions of children lack access to quality learning resources,” Bector explains. “Our portable projectors are designed to make education more inclusive, empowering students with the knowledge they need to shape their futures.”
Epson’s environmental strategy goes beyond efficient energy usage, emphasising the need for sustainable materials. The company leads innovation through its Dry Fiber Technology, which recycles hard-to-process materials, including functional textiles. Epson also invests in membrane separation technology to improve CO2 capture and recovery, supporting its initiative to lower carbon emissions across various industries.
“To truly make an impact, we need to rethink how we use resources,” Bector notes. “By developing technologies that promote a circular economy, we can minimize waste, reuse materials efficiently, and move closer to our goal of eliminating reliance on underground resources.”
Continued Sustainability Drive
Epson continues to develop environmental innovations by focusing on strategic organisational changes within the organization. The company has built its first biomass power plant within its facilities to demonstrate its dedication to renewable energy. Epson also collaborates with suppliers to help them reduce environmental impact while offering assistance for their switch to sustainable delivery systems and renewable power solutions.
With a clear blueprint for a sustainable future, Epson continues to lead the way in corporate environmental responsibility. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations—manufacturing, education, and resource management—the company demonstrates that innovation and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
“As a company, we do not just set goals; we take action to achieve them,” Bector concludes. “We remain committed to creating a greener, more sustainable world for future generations.”
