Ricoh's Green Mission: Can Business & Nature Thrive Together?

adamnfool

New member
Under the pressing challenges of global climate change, "carbon neutrality" and the "circular economy" have evolved from conceptual ideals into fundamental principles for business survival and growth. Protecting the ecological environment is not only a sacred duty for every global citizen but also the foundation for corporate longevity and prosperity.

As a globally renowned technology company, Ricoh Group doesn’t just embrace ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles—it integrates sustainability into its core brand values. With remarkable achievements in environmental innovation, Ricoh has become a global benchmark for corporate sustainability, demonstrating through action that the ultimate mission of a tech company isn’t just economic value creation, but safeguarding the foundation of human civilization and building a greener, more sustainable future.

PART .01
Doing "Less" for the Planet: Sustainability in Product Design

While most tech companies chase more powerful, refined products—competing through specs and iterations—Ricoh focuses on a deeper question: How can we reduce environmental impact? This forward-thinking approach drives Ricoh’s exploration of renewable energy solutions. The launch of the new Ricoh PJ RK500UST projector is a powerful embodiment of this philosophy.

The innovation behind the Ricoh PJ RK500UST projector begins with a profound commitment to the environment. Its casing is made from recycled plastic, effectively reducing plastic waste at the source and promoting resource regeneration. This not only highlights Ricoh’s dedication to circular resource use but also showcases its innovative thinking in sustainability. Additionally, the PJ RK500UST replaces traditional high-pressure mercury lamps with mercury-free laser light sources, eliminating heavy metal pollution risks and ensuring safety during use and disposal.

Ricoh’s environmental commitment goes further. Beyond eco-friendly materials and light sources, energy-saving technology is deeply embedded in its designs. Currently, over ten Ricoh projector models, including the PJ RK500UST, have passed rigorous audits by the China Quality Certification Center (CQC), earning both environmental and top-tier energy efficiency certifications—proof of Ricoh’s unwavering dedication to sustainability.

PART .02
Building a Green Ecosystem: Sustainability Across the Entire Chain

For Ricoh, environmental responsibility is a foundational business principle. The company continuously balances commercial value with ecological protection, creating a closed-loop green ecosystem that spans raw material sourcing, manufacturing, and product recycling. This approach aligns with Ricoh’s "3P Balance" philosophy (Prosperity, People, and Planet), driving its pursuit of a sustainable future.

On the production front, Ricoh made an early commitment: by 2019, it announced 100% renewable energy use for A3 multifunction printer assembly. By 2021, this goal was achieved across all six of its Chinese subsidiaries. As the first Japanese company to join RE100, Ricoh continues innovating to achieve 100% renewable energy in all global factories by 2050.

Ricoh also extends its sustainability mission outward. Through initiatives like the "R Planet Alliance" (engaging supply chain partners) and the "R Planet Tribe" (a personal carbon footprint platform), Ricoh’s "R Planet" program has reduced carbon emissions by 30,919 metric tons as of 2024. These efforts elevate public awareness, transforming SDGs from corporate strategy into a broader societal movement.

From R&D to user experience and recycling, sustainability is woven into every stage of Ricoh’s product lifecycle. This commitment has earned widespread recognition: five consecutive years of top "Nikkei SDGs Management Survey" ratings, inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, and honors like "2024 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations" and "FT-Statista Asia-Pacific Climate Leaders."

Through recycled materials, energy-efficient tech, and closed-loop systems, Ricoh consistently "does less" for the planet—setting new benchmarks for the consumer electronics industry. Its actions prove that true innovation isn’t just about product upgrades, but relentless progress toward a sustainable future.
 
Top