Every April, Earth Day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect our planet–and industries worldwide are stepping up to meet the challenge. The printing and scanning industry is no exception.
Notably, over the past 25 years, the recycling rate within the industry has doubled, reflecting a robust commitment to environmental responsibility. In fact, according to Global Information research, the global sustainable printing market is expected to grow by 7.5% between now and 2032. This growth is driven by advancements in eco-friendly technologies, data analytics, and a collective commitment to reducing waste.
In this Earth Day edition of the Mopria Alliance Roundtable, we convene industry experts from the alliance to discuss how the print and scan industry is addressing climate challenges through innovative solutions and sustainable practices.
Eco-Friendly Hardware
“As the printing industry embraces sustainability, hardware advancements play a crucial role in reducing environmental impact. Manufacturers are increasingly using recycled materials, energy-efficient components, and durable designs to extend product life cycles.
One standout example is Kyocera, which integrates long-life components and eco-friendly toner technology to minimize waste and energy consumption. Their ECOSYS printers utilize a patented long-life drum separate from the toner container, eliminating the need for drum replacement when toner is depleted. Additionally, Kyocera’s new eco-friendly toner fuses at temperatures 30°C lower than conventional products, significantly reducing energy consumption.
As we celebrate Earth Day, it’s clear that sustainable hardware design is not just a trend—it’s a necessity for the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility.”
-Dilinur Wushour, President at Kyocera Document Solutions Development America, Inc.
Reducing Waste & Carbon Footprint
“Sustainable printing is reshaping the industry, driven by a commitment to circular economies and eco-conscious innovation. Companies now design print consumables—like cartridges and paper—for reuse, refill, and recycling, reducing landfill waste. Partnerships with local recycling organizations are expanding, making it easier for customers to return used materials responsibly. Education plays a key role: businesses are training staff in sustainable practices, while consumers learn how to minimize their printing footprint. Together, these efforts are creating a greener future where printing supports—not harms—the planet. It’s not just about ink and paper anymore—it’s about printing with purpose.”
-Michael St. Laurent, Print Software and Consumer Services Chief Architect at HP
The Future of Sustainable Printing
“Sustainability is a key focus in the technology industry, with companies adopting practices that benefit both the environment and product longevity. The trend is towards reducing material consumption through various methods:
- Designing for Extended Lifetimes: Products are designed to last longer, reducing waste and replacements.
- Use of Recycled Materials: Incorporating recycled components lowers the demand for virgin materials.
- Collecting and Reusing/Remanufacturing: Programs to refurbish used products conserve resources.
- Designing for Reduced Paper Usage: Digital solutions and features like duplex printing minimize paper consumption.
- Reduction in Plastic Packaging: Replacing plastic with fiber-based materials decreases waste.
These trends promote a more sustainable industry.”
-Eric McCann, Manager, Technology Portfolio Architect at Lexmark
Embracing sustainability is not just an ethical imperative but a strategic necessity. Over half of CEOs now prioritize sustainability more than they did a year ago, recognizing its business benefits. In the printing industry, this translates to adopting data-driven strategies, investing in eco-friendly hardware, and implementing effective waste reduction measures.
As we celebrate Earth Day, the Mopria Alliance remains committed to fostering innovations that ensure printing and scanning are both efficient and environmentally responsible. Through membership in the Mopria Alliance, industry leaders collaborate to establish universal standards for print and scan–standards that not only enhance interoperability but also drive sustainability efforts across the industry. By working together, Mopria members are shaping a future where printing and scanning are smarter, more energy-efficient, and better for the planet.
