Most of our OA device reuse and recycling functions, previously distributed over 17 locations across Japan, have now been consolidated at the RICOH Eco Business Development Center in Gotemba.The Center enjoys a high reputation within the industry for both quality and quantity in processing OA devices. Based on the Comet Circle concept, we further develop reuse and recycling technology at this advanced site.
Also, by expanding the target products and areas for reuse and recycling, we plan to reinforce our office equipment business centered on photocopiers and printers and drive the Ricoh Group’s eco business forward.
We have incorporated the use of automated guided vehicle (AGV) to improve plant operations and space efficiency for entering and dispatching control of collected machines.
The Comet Circle is a conceptual representation of Ricoh’s approach to realize a sustainable society by attempting to reduce environmental impacts throughout the entire lifecycle of a product, not just within the Ricoh Group but also including both the upstream and downstream sections of the supply chain. As shown in the figure, the smaller the loop (closer to the user), the lower the environmental impact and higher economic efficiency. Ricoh’s development of reuse and recycling technology is seeking to make these loops as small and close to the user as possible.