Epson Highlights Sustainable Technology Role in Education

Nairobi,

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

KNA by Onyango Venah/Damaris Munyao

Global Technology Company Epson, has unveiled a study that indicates technology is a key component in the fight against climate change.

 Epson's Regional Head for East and West Africa Mukesh Bector says Epson views technology as an enabler, with products that are designed to use fewer resources in production, last for longer, are more easily repairable, can be re-used, and are more easily recycled.

Speaking during an Education Technology and Sustainability Stakeholders event in Nairobi, Bector cited the importance of the transformative power of sustainable technology in education in aligning with the core objectives of the upcoming COP28 agenda.

The event highlighted Epson’s commitment to integrating environmental stewardship into educational advancements, signaling a new era for youth education across East and West Africa.

 “Technology is the most important weapon in the fight against catastrophic climate change. Together, we can create the solutions that people need as they act to mitigate climate impact,” Bector stated.

Research conducted by Epson in Kenya revealed that 90 percent of students in Kenya agree that printed learning materials help them to understand and retain information better than digital materials alone, yet the majority of students (77 percent) feel conflicted when it comes to printing materials they need because they want to be as environmentally conscious as possible.

Further, the research shows that as 87 percent of Kenyan students believe their learning would be improved if their place of education provided them with a more sustainable printing solution, to use less energy and create less wastage, educational institutions must have the opportunity to hear the voices of their students – to understand what could better their learning and ultimately better the results.

 According to Bector, the solution already exists as Epson Heat-Free printers are poised to provide this balance between the children having the best education possible, without compromising their passion to being considerate of the environmental implications of their learning process. 

  “With Epson Heat-Free printers, energy consumption is significantly reduced, compared with laser printers, and with the option of double-sided printing, paper wastage is instantly reduced,” he added.

Bector insisted that this suite of printers not only brings lessons to life but also serves as a benchmark for sustainability.

He cited Epson’s EcoTank printers, renowned for their high efficiency and low waste, as a testament to the company’s ethos of reducing ecological footprints.

 “These printers are meticulously engineered to reduce energy consumption, thereby lowering schools' operational costs and carbon emissions in line with the ambitious goals set forth by COP28 to mitigate the effects of climate change,” he reiterated.

 At the same time, Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa National Trainer Martin Mungai maintained that education is the cornerstone of a sustainable future, and technology serves as the catalyst.

 “As we embrace sustainable technology in education, we not only empower our students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world, but we also nurture a generation that is committed to preserving the planet for generations to come,” he noted.

 Epson's ongoing investments in research and development reflect a deep-seated belief that sustainability and technology must coalesce to spearhead societal change.

 Additionally, the company continues to introduce products and initiatives that embody this principle, demonstrating a clear alignment with the environmental objectives outlined by international bodies and local governments.

Further, Epson has reaffirmed its pledge to spearhead the adoption of green technology in education across Africa, and by fostering partnerships and dialogue, the company is catalyzing a movement towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all learners.

Courtesy; KNA