Global tech company eyes greener future with 'Trash to Treasure' program

MANILA, Philippines — Can trash be turned into treasure?

Epson Philippines, a global technology leader known for home and office printing solutions, has been doing exactly that.

The company concluded the pilot batch of its “Trash to Treasure” program, a major effort aimed at promoting responsible consumption and proper waste management. The initiative highlights Epson's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and its efforts to enrich the communities where it operates.

Launched in 2023, "Trash to Treasure" encourages employees to participate by donating specific types of clean plastic waste, including plastic bottles, egg containers, shampoo bottles, toothpaste tubes, courier pouches, food containers, cutlery, straws, potato chip bags, milk jugs, cooking oil containers, and shopping bags.

At the end of last year, the company was able to collect a total of 162 kilograms of clean plastic, which were then donated to Pasig City's Environmental Resources and Waste Management Office (CENRO) and upcycled by CENRO's partner organizations into vases, chairs, and other items.

 The company has made it easy for its employees to participate in the program. They only need to follow three simple steps: First, check the list of accepted plastics; Second, ensure that all donated plastics are cleaned and air-dried; and, Third, drop off their donations at designated bins within the office premises, where the plastics are weighed.

The clean plastics are then collected and allocated to Pasig CENRO to support its recycling efforts.

"In launching our 'Trash to Treasure' program, we are actively addressing waste management while demonstrating our commitment to responsible practices. This initiative reflects our ongoing efforts to make a positive impact on our environment and support the communities we serve," said Masako Kusama, Epson Philippines President and Director.

The company's prioritization of environmentally conscious initiatives is evident in its innovative technologies and corporate projects, as well as in its integration of recycled materials into some of its products and packaging.

Through programs like “Trash to Treasure,” it engages its employees, consumers, and partners in responsible consumption and waste reduction efforts. The company will continue the “Trash to Treasure” program as part of its environmental stewardship efforts, encouraging ongoing participation and collaboration to transform waste into valuable resources and foster a greener and more sustainable future for all.

 "We are thrilled to continue our sustainability efforts following the successful first round of the 'Trash to Treasure' program. This initiative aligns with our broader mission to leverage our technologies and engage our employees in creating a more sustainable future for all,” Kusama said. 

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