Epson has announced that it will be investing €770 million (Sh127.8 billion) into markets including Kenya in its race to become a more sustainable company and develop sustainable technology.
This coming at a time that Sustainability targets and net-zero commitments have moved rapidly to the forefront of boardroom conversations at businesses across the region
Epson Regional Head, East and West Africa Mukesh Bector says sustainability and environmental considerations are key driving forces in the printer manufacturing industry today.
The firm said in the race towards net zero, it has transitioned fully to inkjet technology and will end global sales and distribution of laser printers by 2026.
The inkjet technology is known for its ability to reduce energy consumption compared to laser printers.
Mukesh says inkjet printers have a compact footprint and lightweight design, limiting resources used during production and shipping.
“Epson has observed a growing demand for eco-friendly printing solutions as businesses and individuals seek ways to reduce their carbon footprint, plastic wastage and energy consumption. We are committed to being carbon negative and underground resource-free by 2050, this means we will not use new non-renewable resources,” added Mukesh.
In the decarbonisation plan Mukesh told the Star that the company is planning to separate its African operations with the European market next year.
“As of April 2024, the operations of Africa, Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East, Moldova, Türkiye, and Ukraine, will separate from the European sales company it currently sits under to become its own sales company, Epson EME,” said Mukesh.
The firm added that it’s also investing in more storage facilities in region, to cushion its operations in case of a disruption in the global distribution chain.
Last month the firm, unveiled ongoing investments in research and development to produce environmentally sustainable product that are key in combating climate change.
In a bid to fortify its share in the region, the Japanese company said it has introduced its heat-free printers with significantly low energy consumption in the Kenyan market which also helps in reducing energy bills accrued by learning institutions as well as cut their carbon emissions.