Illuminating Sustainability

Green Initiatives in Our Projector Business

Our contribution to society and dedication to fostering a sustainable global environment are evident throughout our projector business.
Proactive initiatives to reduce resource usage, emissions, and waste throughout every stage of the product lifecycle demonstrate our steadfast commitment to these goals.

Procurement

Sourcing for Sustainability

Finding a Green Path Forward

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of our business. We perform our own projector design and manufacturing, not only complying with regulations like the RoHS directive but also conducting them with an exclusive emphasis on environmentally considerate practices. We take pride in making choices that lead to a cleaner environment and a brighter future.

Reduction of Hazardous Substances

Compliance with the RoHS Directive

When sourcing materials, Panasonic adheres to the RoHS directive, which restricts using ten specified substances. These substances comprise lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP). Embracing these guidelines isn't just about upholding regulatory standards. It's paving the way for safer, more environmentally conscious products.

Mercury-free Laser Light Sources

Projectors with lamp light sources pose challenges since the lamps, which contain mercury, require periodic replacement and disposal. We addressed this issue in 2013 with the release of the PT-RW330, our first projector to feature a mercury-free laser light source, and have expanded our environmentally conscious laser projector lineup ever since. Furthermore, since laser modules boast a longer operating life than lamps, disposal of consumable parts and the associated environmental impact is dramatically reduced.

Eco-friendly Painting Processes

We've rethought the design of selected models' plastic parts, such as the projector enclosure. We achieved a paint-free design with these models by re-evaluating materials selection and implementing surface treatments such as texture processing. This helps to reduce our carbon footprint through a reduction in CO2 emissions associated with painting and underscores our will to integrate eco-friendly practices without compromising on aesthetics or functionality.

Responsible Mineral Sourcing

Tracking Minerals, Changing Lives

With a keen awareness of the societal implications of mineral sourcing, Panasonic endeavors to source minerals with integrity. Our in-house mineral-sourcing investigation, bolstered by the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI)-certified Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP) program, aims to illuminate supply chain paths and ensure we're not inadvertently contributing to conflicts or illicit activities. We strive to ensure our business aligns with ethical mineral sourcing practices through due diligence and collaboration with our suppliers.

Production

Energy Conservation at Our Factories

Efficient Energy Management

Panasonic's energy conservation initiatives are driven by our collective determination to protect the environment while maintaining high-quality production. As part of the wider efforts of Panasonic Group to achieve net zero CO2 emissions for all group operating companies' business activities by 2030, Panasonic Connect, an operating company of the Panasonic Group, contributes to this ambitious objective in various ways. These include energy usage and wastage reduction toward our goal of carbon-neutral factory operations.

Improved Cleanroom Efficiency

Our primary focus is to decrease energy usage while maintaining production efficiency. For instance, in the context of large-scale clean rooms, substantial resources were necessary for their operation and maintenance. As a result, we conducted a process review, leading to the downsizing of certain clean rooms and the transition of some processes to open clean benches. This change limits the controlled conditions to the immediate workspace, substantially reducing resource consumption without compromising product quality. Additionally, we've made investments in upgrading our equipment to enhance energy efficiency throughout our production lines, ensuring that every step aligns with our sustainability goals.

Smart Energy Practices, Including Factory LED Lighting

Our commitment to minimizing our carbon footprint extends beyond the workday. We've implemented energy-saving strategies during off-hours, including nights and holidays, to reduce energy wastage during periods of lower activity. Furthermore, our factories are lit by efficient LED lighting, and we've implemented air-conditioning management in our cleanrooms and beyond to minimize energy waste.

Waste Reduction and Recycling Programs

Recycling of Plastic Components

Our commitment to energy efficiency complements our efforts to reduce waste and enhance resource utilization throughout our production processes. In the molding of plastic components, no waste goes unnoticed. Excess materials (such as runners, which are produced during the molding of plastic parts) are reprocessed and given new life. These recycled materials find purpose in applications such as reusable containers, highlighting our dedication to maximizing the potential of every resource.

Smart Packaging to Reduce Waste

We’re making inroads into reducing packing waste by transporting components with returnable boxes. Other changes, such as switching to a thinner stretch film to enhance pallet stability during transportation, further underscores our sustainable practices.

Sustainability Efforts at Our Facilities

Use of Recycled Paper

We are conscious of the environmental impact of our daily business operations. In addition to reducing paper usage by digitizing internal documentation, marketing materials, manufacturing manuals, and so on, we use recycled paper and collect and recycle any paper waste.

Efficient LED Lighting

LED lighting strips consume less than half the electricity of linear fluorescent and CFL bulbs and don't contain hazardous substances such as mercury. They also last more than twice as long as alternative products, reducing wastage and maintenance. Panasonic has transitioned to efficient LED lighting across all its manufacturing and non-manufacturing sites, a move that has made a significant contribution to our carbon-neutral ambitions.

ISO 14001-Certified Facilities

Driving Sustainability with EMS

Since fiscal 1999, the Panasonic Group has implemented Environmental Management Systems (EMS) across all its global manufacturing sites that are validated by ISO 14001 certification. This commitment extends to our projector business's manufacturing and development sites, which have also obtained ISO 14001 certification.

Distribution, Sales, and Installation

Smaller Products and Packaging: A Win for You, a Win for Earth

Product Miniaturization to Shrink Our Carbon Footprint

Projector size is crucial for our clients and impacts the product's overall CO2 emissions. Heavy, bulky projectors require more personnel and resources for transport, storage, and setup. For this reason, we've invested substantial R&D resources to drive product miniaturization. Elements like the cooling systems and optical engines have consistently shrunk with each product iteration. For example, the PT-RQ25K 3-Chip DLP™ Projector is 40% smaller and 35% lighter than its PT-RQ22K predecessor, allowing a team of two instead of four people to carry it. This yields immediate resource, cost, and emission reductions in our clients' workflows. In addition, smaller projectors unlock new production opportunities by delivering brighter, more immersive projections to spaces where large units can't fit.

Smaller, Brighter Projectors = Fewer Units Needed

Smaller and brighter projectors often result in a reduction in the number of units required to achieve an equivalent brightness and coverage area. For example, our RQ50K 4K projector is twice as bright as the RQ32K with the same footprint, cutting the required units in half and significantly easing the logistical burden. Our optional fisheye lens also expands coverage, enabling full-dome projection with just one projector and halving the number of units required to map images on large spheres. The drive to miniaturize reduces the storage, transport, installation, and setup resources, delivering substantial savings while shrinking our carbon footprint.

Smaller Cartons: Fewer Trips, Fewer Emissions

To boost efficiency, we've made improvements to our packaging materials for specific projector models. One key change involves replacing polystyrene with polyethylene foam inside the shipping carton. This allows us to downsize the carton without compromising its protective qualities. As a result, we can maximize loading capacity on trucks, trains, ships, and aircraft, leading to fewer trips and decreased CO2 emissions. Smaller cartons also improve warehouse space utilization. The benefits ripple through our distribution chain and dealer network to benefit end-users with less waste and enhanced practicality.

Streamlined Installation and Operation

Saving Time, Effort, and the Environment

Panasonic leads the way in sustainable entertainment production with unique features that simplify setup at the event site, streamline complex processes, and save time, labor, resources, and cost. With less need for large teams of installers, these solutions cut labor, time wastage, and energy consumption while boosting productivity. This dual impact underscores our dedication to both social progress and environmental well-being.

Function Highlights

NFC Function

Avoid delays while waiting for an AC power connection at the venue. Pair smartphone and projector via NFC and prepare it for setup with the unit unplugged so it's ready for network connection as soon as power rolls out on site. Projector settings can also be reset to defaults while unplugged, an action that used to require OSD menu projection.

Smart Projector Control App

Control and adjust projectors without needing to project the OSD settings menu. Select test patterns, adjust lens settings, and focus the image with one person instead of two using a compatible smartphone camera, even from a long distance away.

Edge-blending via Camera

Select models compatible with Geometry Manager Pro software ship with preactivated upgrade kits that save time and labor. Among many time-saving capabilities is connecting a camera (sold separately) to a PC and automatically performing edge-blending adjustments and calibration.

Projection Angle Detection

Select models feature a gyro sensor that detects changes to the projector's body pitch and roll angles and displays the information graphically in the OSD settings menu. Installers no longer need assistance to check the projection angle as the body is adjusted, saving resources.

Note: Click here to identify models compatible with the functions mentioned on this page.

Lifetime Usage

Reducing Our Carbon Footprint Through Innovation

Efficient Projection for a Sustainable Future

About 80% of the Panasonic Group's carbon dioxide emissions in the fiscal year 2020 were attributed to emissions during product usage. While continuing to enhance product performance is a core part of our strategy in the projector business, we also believe that improving energy efficiency during usage is essential in creating a sustainable society.

Enhancing Projection Efficiency

Enhancing the lumens-per-watt ratio is pivotal in boosting energy efficiency. Our engineers are continually refining projector optical engines to heighten light-collection efficiency, optimizing brightness and cutting power consumption. Transformer technology has advanced in parallel, enabling more efficient current conversion for smaller, lighter products. Our VMZ71 Series, for example, is about 20% more energy-efficient than the previous VMZ60 Series, significantly reducing power costs and global carbon emissions in this high-capacity market.

^{Note: Power saving calculation derived from a comparison between the PT-VMZ50 (5,000 lm, max. power consumption 370 W, launched in February 2019) and the PT-VMZ51S (5,200 lm, max. power consumption 300 W, launched in February 2022).}

Lower Consumption with Eco Features

We prioritize sustainability with features designed to conserve energy and extend product lifespans. These include auto brightness adjustment to suit ambient light levels, light-source shutdown when no signal is detected, and an ECO mode when full brightness isn’t needed. Using the REZ12 as an example, changing from [NORMAL] to [ECO] mode reduces light output from
12,000 lm¹ to 9,600 lm¹ but extends the light-source lifespan from 20,000 hours² to 24,000 hours². Assuming a 13-year application requiring 24/7 projection, choosing ECO over NORMAL results in resource savings equivalent to one projector replacement. In effect, the projector would be replaced five times instead of six in this timeframe, reducing the ecological impact of extra manufacturing, transportation, installation, and disposal. Furthermore, in [ECO] mode, on-mode consumption drops from 850 W to 650 W, cutting total consumption from 17,000 kW to 15,600 kW. Panasonic is committed to providing eco features tailored to your usage scenarios, promoting sustainability and responsible resource utilization.

^{Note: Function availability varies by model. The usage application example assumes that subsequent models released after the REZ12 maintain similar performance and specifications. Actual replacement times may vary based on usage patterns and conditions. Please consult the operating manual of specific models for more information.}

^{1 Measurement, measuring conditions, and method of notation all comply with ISO/IEC 21118: 2020 international standards. Value is the average of all products when shipped.}
^{2 Around this time, the light output will have decreased by approximately 50 %. IEC62087: 2008 Broadcast Contents, NORMAL Mode, Dynamic Contrast [3], temperature 35 °C (95 °F), elevation 700m (2,297 ft) with 0.15 mg/m3 of airborne particulate matter. Light-source lifetime may be reduced depending on environmental conditions. Replacement of parts other than the light source may be required in a shorter period. Estimated maintenance time varies depending on the environment.}

Dust Resistant to Extend Product Longevity

To extend the lifespan of specific new-generation Panasonic laser projector models in challenging environments, we have developed an optical engine and laser light source module that conforms to IEC Standard 60529/JIS C0920 IP5X (Dust Protected type), enhancing dust resistance.

^{Note: The Dust Protected performance of compatible models is not guaranteed to be free from damage or failure under all conditions (environment with conductive dust, etc.). Please use an enclosure in environments with smoke containing oil, salt, and moisture.}

Contributing to a Society United by Emotion

The Social Impact of Public Entertainment

The global pandemic highlighted the importance of public entertainment that brings people together to share emotions. Projection technology is crucial in enhancing the value of various forms of public entertainment, such as themed, location-based, and educational entertainment. Furthermore, public participation in live entertainment using projection technology allows people to feel present even from distant locations. This aligns with the principles of IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility), enabling individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges to participate. Panasonic remains steadfast in its commitment to the entertainment industry and IDEA principles, uniting people and society in shared experiences that surprise, delight, and inspire.

Supporting Sustainable Work and Learning Styles

In the transition from remote work to hybrid models, companies and schools are improving communication quality through the use of visual media. This innovation, supported by projection technology, not only enhances productivity but also aligns with sustainability goals by reducing reliance on paper and the resources required for physical gatherings. Especially in the realm of education, large projection screens are creating environments that promote the use of digital textbooks and interactive learning methods. This shift contributes to the equitable availability of high-quality educational opportunities through visual communication technology, reducing our dependence on traditional printed materials and physical meetings.

Disposal & Recycling

Adding Value to a Circular Economy

Sharing the Value of the Products We Make

Panasonic is committed to the concept of the circular economy, which seeks to promote sustainable economic growth by reducing continuous resource consumption. We contribute to this global movement by focusing on two main aspects: establishing circular economy businesses and advancing recycling-oriented manufacturing. Our initiatives, such as sharing services and product-as-a-service, aim to maximize resource efficiency and customer value.

Global Initiatives for Used Product Recycling

Amid a global drive for efficient resource use towards a circular economy, most countries have enacted recycling laws and systems for consumer and professional electronics. Examples include Japan's Home Appliance Recycling Law, the European Union's WEEE Directive, and recycling regulations in the United States and China. Panasonic aligns with these efforts by establishing tailored recycling systems in accordance with local infrastructure and regulations, often collaborating with third parties. Complying with the Basel Convention and local laws, we focus on efficient recycling, natural resource preservation, and pollution prevention.

Maximizing the Use of Recyclable Materials

We strive to design products that are easily recyclable, with the aim of minimizing our environmental impact. Our product designs incorporate as many reusable materials as possible, such as steel and plastic, with some of our products featuring up to 80% recyclable materials. We remain focused on developing materials with a lower environmental footprint and continuously improving our sustainable manufacturing practices.

Less Packaging Waste

Our initiative to reduce product and carton sizes is primarily aimed at streamlining our customers’ business logistics by reducing the resources required for transport, storage, and installation. However, the efforts to reduce carton size (as highlighted on the Distribution, Sales, and Installation page) have also had the effect of reducing the physical amount of cardboard and packing material that requires recycling or disposal after purchase, reducing waste and easing our impact on the environment even further.

Extending the Projector's Lifespan

Greater Longevity with Optional Accessories

Laser projectors support maintenance-free projection for about 20,000 hours, equivalent to a decade of daily use for eight hours over five workdays. In fact, these projectors often outlast the spatial designs of entertainment attractions, which are updated periodically. Panasonic's solution lies in a diverse range of optional lenses, mounts, and function boards for selected models. These accessories allow users to adapt compatible projectors to suit different applications without necessitating a full unit replacement. When an upgrade is due, these accessories can often transition to the next model, curbing resource waste and minimizing costs. Panasonic's modular design prolongs projector life and promotes sustainability and cost-effectiveness in business, education, and entertainment settings.

^{Note: At around 20,000 hours, the light output will have decreased by approximately 50 %. Varies depending on the projector specification, settings, and operating conditions. Refer to individual product specifications for details. Light-source lifetime may be reduced depending on environmental conditions. Replacement of parts other than the light source may be required in a shorter period. Estimated maintenance time varies depending on the environment.}