Epson Switches to Environmentally-Conscious Standardized Packaging for LFP Ink Cartridges

- TOKYO, Japan, December 12, 2006 -

Seiko Epson Corporation ("Epson") is planning to change the packaging for its large format printer (LFP) ink cartridges from white cardboard to 100% recycled brown cardboard (kraft cardboard) and to standardize packaging specifications worldwide. The company will also change the plastic used in ink cartridge casings from gray to a natural color. These changes result from a comprehensive review of materials and specifications aimed at reducing environmental impact. Product shipments will progressively switch to the new specifications from late December.

Until now numerous types of packaging have been used for LFP ink cartridges, depending on the printer model, color specifications and target market. For example, Epson handled 30 different types of packaging for 110 ml ink cartridges used in 7-color printers (16 for Japan and 14 for overseas markets). These reforms will enable packaging to be reduced to a single type.

Features of the new packaging

* 80% recycled white cardboard replaced with 100% recycled brown cardboard
* Package printing changed from full color to black and white
* Instructions in seven languages for worldwide standardization
* Model- and color-specific information printed on a separate sticker

Switching ink cartridges from gray to natural color will help reduce the environmental impact of production by eliminating dyes and reducing fabrication processes. It is also expected to improve recycling rates, since natural-colored plastic can be used for a wide variety of purposes.

Models to use the new packaging and natural-color ink cartridges
Japan: PX-9500, PX-9500S, PX-7500, PX-7500S, PX-6500, PX-6200S, PX-9000, PX-7000, PX-6000, PX-6000S, EX-7000
Overseas: Stylus Pro 9800, Stylus Pro 9400, Stylus Pro 7800, Stylus Pro 7400, Stylus Pro 4800, Stylus Pro 4400, Stylus Pro 9600, Stylus Pro 7600, Stylus Pro 4000


The new ink cartridges and packaging will be on display from Thursday December 14 to Saturday December 16 in the Epson booth (booth No. 3084, East 3 Hall) at the Eco-Products 2006 environmental exhibition being held at Tokyo Big Sight.

The Epson Group undertakes a variety of environmental activities worldwide, including efforts to prevent global warming, reduce and recycle resources, and control the use of chemicals. Through participation in activities such as the Bellmark program in Japan, Epson collects and recycles used ink cartridges in nine countries. As well as enhancing the environmental performance of printers and consumables throughout their life cycles, the group is taking its environmental conservation activities to an even higher level by considering the environmental impact of all aspects of its operations, including packaging and transportation methods.

About Epson
Epson is a global leader in imaging products including printers, 3LCD projectors and small- and medium-sized LCDs. With an innovative and creative culture, Epson is dedicated to exceeding the vision and expectations of customers worldwide with products known for their superior quality, functionality, compactness and energy efficiency.
Epson is a network of 102,025 employees in 120 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and to the communities in which it is located. Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp., the Group had consolidated sales of 1549.5 billion yen in fiscal 2005.