Key industry initiatives that set the pace for remanufacturing
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Observed every year on the 24th of April, Global Remanufacturing Day celebrates the growing role of remanufacturing in building a more sustainable and circular global economy. The day aims to raise awareness of how extending product lifecycles through remanufacturing can reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower carbon emissions while maintaining high product performance standards. Unlike recycling, which breaks materials down, remanufacturing preserves much of a product’s original value by restoring it to “as-new” condition.
Within the office technology sector, remanufacturing is becoming a cornerstone of sustainability strategies, driven by increasing regulatory pressure, customer expectations, and environmental responsibility. As highlighted in recent Keypoint research, remanufacturing has evolved from a niche, cost-driven alternative into a mainstream strategic solution that offers environmental benefits and competitive performance.
Javier Martinez Zavala, President of the Board of ETIRA
(Source: ETIRA)
Industry Initiative 1: ETIRA Is Constantly Raising Awareness
One of the key initiatives supporting this transition is the work carried out by industry stakeholders, including ETRIA, to combat illegal and non-compliant supplies. The identification of counterfeit or “clone” consumables is critical to protecting health, safety, and the environment. According to the Consuprint guide, non-compliant cartridges often lack proper traceability, regulatory documentation, or CE marking—making them a significant risk to users and ecosystems. These products can contain hazardous substances, evade safety regulations, and disrupt fair market competition.
As outlined in the guide’s objectives, initiatives such as these aim to strengthen supply chain transparency, promote regulatory compliance, and educate stakeholders on responsible procurement practices. Currently, ETIRA is working with office supplies distributors to circulate this document and increase awareness.
Canon’s RM Series remanufactured at Canon Virgina Inc. (Source: Canon USA)
Industry Initiative 2: Rebuilt Hardware Saves Resources
At the same time, the printing industry is making substantial progress in remanufactured hardware with Canon and Ricoh leading the way. Canon’s remanufacturing program, particularly its ES range, demonstrates a strong commitment to circularity by achieving up to 90% reuse of parts and materials through controlled remanufacturing processes. These devices are rebuilt to original specifications, ensuring reliability while significantly reducing environmental impact.
Similarly, Ricoh’s GreenLine and Circular Economy programs showcase a mature and industrialized approach to remanufacturing. Supported by centralized facilities and closed-loop systems, Ricoh’s model maximizes resource efficiency and extends product lifecycles, ensuring devices remain in use for longer while reducing waste. These initiatives are further strengthened by certifications such as the BSI Kitemark, ENERGY STAR, as well as Keypoint’s own testing skills to validate quality and sustainability standards.
The broader market reflects this momentum. Demand for remanufactured hardware is rising across Europe, with sustainability now ranking as one of the top purchasing considerations for businesses. Remanufactured A3 devices, for example, are projected to grow steadily—supported by evolving regulations such as Ecodesign and Right to Repair, which prioritize circularity and lifecycle transparency.
Keypoint Intelligence Opinion
Global Remanufacturing Day serves as a reminder that achieving sustainability goals requires collaboration across the entire value chain. From identifying illegal supplies to scaling certified remanufactured hardware programs, the office technology industry is demonstrating how circular practices can deliver both environmental and economic value. As organizations increasingly seek responsible procurement solutions, remanufacturing will continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of office technology, helping businesses reduce their footprint while maintaining performance, reliability, and trust.
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