Tokyo, Japan - Sony has become the first company in the electronics industry to eliminate polystyrene foam packaging for its large-screen televisions, starting with the BRAVIA 9, the 85-inch 4K mini LED TV to be launched in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
The company has partnered with Kaneka Corporation to use its biodegradable biopolymer, Green Planet, as the cushioning material instead.
The move is expected to significantly impact the industry.
Polystyrene foam has been a staple of packaging for large electronics due to its ability to protect heavy and fragile products during transportation.
Sony's decision to switch to a more environmentally friendly alternative could encourage other manufacturers to follow suit, potentially reducing the environmental impact of electronic waste.
Sony used its packaging design expertise and simulation technology to create a mold structure that maintains the TV's impact resistance while using the new material.
The company also simplified the shape of the cushioning material and reduced the number of parts, further minimizing its packaging's environmental footprint.
The move to eco-friendly packaging is part of Sony's "Road to Zero" environmental plan, which aims to achieve zero environmental impact by 2050.
As environmental sustainability becomes an increasingly important for consumers and investors, Sony's early adoption of biodegradable packaging could provide a competitive advantage and set a new standard for the industry.
While the initial rollout is limited to specific models in Hong Kong and Taiwan, the success of this initiative could pave the way for broader adoption of biodegradable packaging materials across Sony's product lines and inspire other manufacturers to follow suit.
