Recycling and circular economy activities

Articles

What does real action mean to us? – Part 2 of 3

Panasonic is committed to going above and beyond our responsibilities when it comes to reducing our impact and addressing the urgent challenges presented by climate change. But what does that action look like? Read on to find out…

Why are recycling and circular economy activities so important?

In line with the Paris Agreement, businesses are responsible for reducing their CO₂ emissions and finding ways to embrace more sustainable solutions and operating models.¹

Previously, we outlined our decarbonization achievements and ambitions. But decarbonization strategies can only be successful if businesses also change the way we interact with our environment, the way we source raw materials, and how we dispose of used products and manufacturing waste.

The benefits of recycling and reusing materials are not limited to waste reduction. They also help businesses avoid unnecessary carbon emissions throughout the value chain. That’s why Panasonic GREEN IMPACT takes a holistic approach, championing decarbonization, recycling, circular economy activities and sustainable innovation.

Increasing the volume of recycled resin used

Recovering resin from used products and reusing it to create new products and appliances is a vital step in reducing the amount of plastic waste and the associated impact of manufacturing new materials.

29,600 tons of recycled resin were used in our consumer products, home appliances, components and other solutions in 2023 and 2024 (cumulative total) – and we’re aiming to reach 90,000 tons by the end of fiscal 2025.

Promoting the use of plastic alternatives in manufacturing

As well as recycling plastic materials, we’re also invested in finding alternative solutions to help people make more sustainable choices. One example of this is the development of kinari: cellulose fiber and resin composite pellets. This material combines resin with naturally derived fibers such as waste wood. Once molded, these pellets can be used for anything from home appliance casing to automotive parts. This plant-derived material is expected to become a widely used alternative to plastic.

Refurbishing used products and appliances

Panasonic is engaged in initiatives to refurbish returned products, appliances and display models that meet our high quality standards. In Japan, certain appliances are already being refurbished for resale, complete with manufacturer’s warranty.

We also have a business model in trials to refurbish display refrigerators across a chain of convenience stores in China. As we continue to expand initiatives like these, we will extend the useful life of our products and reduce waste.

Expansion of circular economy business models and products

Increasing the number of circular economy business models and products within Panasonic Group is a way of future-proofing our business, contributing to more sustainable lifestyles and reducing our impact on the environment. We have already achieved our goal of 13 circular economy business models by 2025.

For example, noiful is our subscription model and support services for home appliances pre-installed in rental properties. It means renters can enjoy the benefits of Panasonic refrigerators, washing machines, and microwave ovens without the hassle of purchase and maintainance. This, in turn, reduces the waste associated with the ownership and disposal of new appliances.

Embracing the use of modular design systems

Saving resources is an important part of waste reduction. Modular designs such as MULTISHAPE – our personal care system that includes 5 detachable heads – reduce the number of products needed, reduce product weight and save on resources.