Sony has made a revolutionary move in the tech industry by discontinuing the use of polystyrene foam cushioning for large TVs, including the 85-inch 4K Mini LED BRAVIA, which will be released in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Instead, Sony is introducing Kaneka Green Planet, a biodegradable biopolymer made from biomass by Kaneka Corporation. This material is not only compostable in soil, but also in seawater, helping to minimize plastic pollution that contaminates the environment.
Sony has developed a special mold design for this new material to absorb impacts during the shipping of large products like TVs, while maintaining durability and quality.
Despite the different characteristics from polystyrene, Sony has successfully integrated complex protective shapes with efficient production processes. Simulation technology and packaging design developed over the years are used to simplify the protective shapes and reduce the number of components.
This step aligns with the Sony Group’s environmental plan, “Road to Zero,” which targets zero environmental impact by 2050. In fact, Sony aims for carbon neutrality in its global value chain, including Scope 1 to 3, by 2040—ten years earlier than the original plan. They are also striving to use 100% renewable energy for internal operations by 2030. Sony remains committed to reducing its environmental impact through the development of environmentally friendly materials.
Repiw’s Conclusion: Sony Dares to Be Different for the Earth
By eliminating polystyrene and replacing it with biodegradable material, Sony demonstrates a real commitment to their environmental efforts. Innovations like Kaneka Green Planet are not just small steps, but giant leaps towards more sustainable technology. In the future, Sony will not only be known for its technological sophistication, but also as a pioneer in protecting the earth. It’s not just about the product, but a greater responsibility.
