Epson’s high-performance cushioning material, crafted from recycled copier paper, has secured a WorldStar Global Packaging Award 2024 in the Electronics category, adding to its accolades from the JapanStar and AsiaStar Awards. The recognition, marking Epson’s second WorldStar Award following its initial win in 2007 for large-format inkjet printer ink packaging, was conferred during a ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand on June 15, 2024.
Organized by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO), the WorldStar Awards assess packaging entries based on technological innovation and design excellence, drawing submissions from national and regional packaging competitions globally.
Previously relying on petroleum-based materials for cushioning in precision equipment packaging, Epson’s shift to eco-friendly paper-based alternatives leverages its proprietary Dry Fiber Technology. This technology efficiently converts internal wastepaper into shock-absorbing fibers with minimal water usage, optimizing their configuration to match or exceed the performance of traditional petroleum-derived counterparts. Notably, these materials facilitate effective resource utilization by maintaining retail box dimensions and cushioning requirements for printers, while also enabling disassembly for compact disposal and recycling.
“This award underscores Epson’s commitment to packaging technology excellence and environmental stewardship,” remarked a company spokesperson. The material’s commendations include the Japan Productivity Center for Socio-Economic Development Award and recognition in the AsiaStar Awards’ Transportation Package category in 2023.
Looking ahead, Epson aims to further integrate Dry Fiber Technology into its environmental initiatives, fostering resource circulation and advancing sustainability goals aligned with its Epson 25 Renewed corporate vision.