Canon’s circular mission: producer responsibility as a natural principle

Canon is originally a Japanese brand. In Japanese culture, intergenerational thinking and sustainability are core values: companies look beyond today’s profits and build relationships, products, and structures that last for generations. This principle is deeply embedded in Canon’s business operations, known as Kyosei, which means working and living together for the common good. The focus on quality and responsibility extends across the entire lifecycle of their products—from design and use to reuse and recycling.

From Product Tuning to Circular Thinking

Canon’s sustainable approach has been refined over the years. What started with product optimization—more reliable and energy-efficient devices—has evolved into a circular strategy that is actively pursued every day. Printers increasingly contain recycled materials, cartridges are reused, and Canon invests in remanufacturing (EU Series) and refurbishment (CU Series). The goal is clear: to preserve as much value as possible and minimize waste.

Producer Responsibility: A Logical Outcome of Japanese Craftsmanship

For Canon, producer responsibility is not a mandated obligation but a natural extension of its deeply rooted Japanese business philosophy. Since its founding, monozukuri has been central—the art and science of making, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and respect for resources. Every Canon product is designed to last, to be repaired, and eventually to return its materials to the cycle.

Taking responsibility for products does not end at the point of sale; it encompasses the entire lifecycle. This is precisely why Canon values its collaboration with Stichting OPEN. Stichting OPEN provides the infrastructure and expertise to organize the collection and high-quality processing of discarded products—a crucial link in closing the loop.

The Future of a Fully Circular System

The path toward full circularity is ambitious but achievable. Canon is investing in innovations such as the development of the Digital Product Passport, which allows consumers and businesses to see exactly where products come from and how they can be optimally reused or recycled. In addition, efforts are underway to improve collection systems, create more sustainable product designs, and establish more efficient chain collaboration.

Canon continues to invest in timeless and modular design: products that remain aesthetically appealing and are easy to repair or upgrade. Furthermore, Canon focuses on using high-quality, recyclable materials that are durable and retain their value—even after intensive use. Suppliers play a crucial role in realizing these circular ambitions.

A Call to the Sector: Cooperation Pays Off

Sander Janssen, Sustainability Specialist at Canon Benelux, sees producer responsibility as a shared mission. “The collaboration with Stichting OPEN shows that collective efforts are key to success. I therefore call on the sector not to view circularity as an obligation, but as an opportunity—an opportunity to take responsibility, preserve value, and create impact together. It is precisely in ‘together’ that the added value lies—for the sector and for Stichting OPEN.”