News in the Channel - issue #38

CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Sustainability is a key priority for many businesses and as part of that, the circular economy is gaining popularity, as they seek to back up policies with demonstrable actions. Wendi Latko, vice president, EHS & Sustainability at Xerox, says circularity is not a ‘nice-to-have’ environmental initiative. “It is a prerequisite for public tenders and a strategic lever to meet ESG goals, reduce environmental impact and future-proof their operations,” she says. “Clients and partners seek clearer evidence of impact rather than broad commitments. They often look for transparent, decision-ready data, for example, lifecycle footprint information, materials composition, end-of-life pathways and the ability to demonstrate reductions year over year. “Interest tends to rise fastest when circular approaches deliver clear operational value: lower total cost of ownership, improved asset utilisation, reduced waste and simplified compliance. The key expectation is credibility; customers want circular claims that are verifiable and measurable, not marketing- led.” Dan Wogan, managed print specialist at Epson UK, notes that circular economy principles are increasingly embedded within ESG frameworks rather than treated as standalone environmental initiatives. “Businesses are scrutinising how long products last, how they are serviced, what happens at end of life, and how supply chains can be optimised to minimise waste,” he adds. “Organisations are seeking clear evidence that their technology partners can support lifecycle extension and waste reduction in measurable and accountable ways.” Chris Bates, services director – Endpoint Solutions, UK and Ireland, TD SYNNEX, says interest in the circular economy remains high among IT buyers. “It’s especially important for businesses to

know that when they dispose of hardware, none of the products or components will go to landfill and that instead, the equipment can be refurbished and reused or recycled,” he says.

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Businesses are scrutinising how long products last, how they are serviced, what happens at end of life, and how supply chains can be optimised to minimise waste.

Manufacturer response Manufacturers are responding to the increase in demand for the circular economy. Dan says manufacturers are rethinking the entire product lifecycle. “That starts at the design stage, creating devices with fewer consumables and longer service intervals, and continues through to recycling programmes and responsible end-of-life management,” he adds. “In print, heat-free inkjet technology reduces mechanical stress and energy consumption compared to traditional laser devices. Fewer moving parts mean less wear and tear, contributing to longer product lifespans and fewer replacement parts. High-yield ink systems further reduce packaging volumes and overall consumables waste. “Manufacturers are also going beyond just product improvements. Epson’s Environmental Vision 2050, for example, is a strategic pledge to become carbon negative and underground resource-free by 2050. Achieving this would mean the elimination of the use of non-renewable underground resources such as oil and metal wherever possible. In simple terms,

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