Colombia is in the midst of a technological revolution and a shift towards sustainability, and Japanese companies are playing an important role in this transformation. In this article, we will explore some of the Japanese companies that are leading the vanguard in Colombia in terms of technology and sustainability.
By: Sebastián Romero - CCJCI International Business Intern, Santo Tomás University.
Innovative Trends in Technology and Sustainability in Colombia
In the Colombian context, the future of agriculture is glimpsed with the participation of prominent Japanese companies such as ArkEdgeSpace, which is collaborating with the Embassy of Japan in Colombia and the Colombian Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in seeking to promote agricultural development in Colombia and in the world, improving the competitiveness and quality of products, including monitoring systems based on sensors that increase productivity and reduce the environmental impact in Colombian fields.
Furthermore, Japan's commitment to sustainability does not stop here, as they also lead the research and development of sustainable energy and materials with the goal of reducing carbon emissions, as exemplified by Hitachi Energy, thus contributing to the reduction of pollution. environmental.
The sustainable vision of these companies expands to reforestation projects in the Amazon region in Colombia. Additionally, in response to the challenge of waste management in the country, Japanese companies are working on developing smart solutions to reduce, recycle and reuse efficiently, promoting a cleaner and more sustainable future for Colombia.
Hitachi Energy: Boosting Renewable Energy
Hitachi Energy is a global company with a strong presence in more than 140 countries. It employs approximately 40,000 people in 90 countries. The company is recognized for its leadership in the energy sector, its deep technical knowledge and its commitment to innovation. It works closely with a wide range of partners, including customers, suppliers, policymakers, academics and communities, to establish sustainable partnerships and promote a sustainable energy future in an ever-changing world, with continued growth in renewable energy.
Hitachi Energy is dedicated to providing innovative solutions and services in the utility, industrial and infrastructure sectors. Its primary focus is to accelerate the transition to a carbon-neutral future, driving digital transformation in the energy value chain. The company seeks to move towards sustainable, flexible and secure energy systems, while balancing social, environmental and economic considerations.
How do they contribute to the sustainability of the region?
Hitachi Energy announces support for Grupo Energía Bogotá (GEB) in a key project for the transmission of renewable energy in northern Colombia. This project will allow the energy generated by wind farms in La Guajira to be brought to the National Interconnected System. Hitachi Energy will provide power reactors to improve power transmission efficiency. The project will benefit all users of the transmission system and will contribute to the diversification of the country's energy matrix, reducing pollution and promoting economic development in the region.
Konica Minolta: Technologies for a Sustainable Future
Konica Minolta is a leading business solutions provider with a global presence. Its focus is on innovation and improving efficiency in multiple sectors, such as optical technology, printing, functional materials and healthcare. Additionally, the company is diversifying its operations, including the planetarium business, and expanding its reach in Asia.
How do they contribute to the sustainability of the region?
Konica Minolta's investment in efficient printing technologies, accurate emissions measurement and collaboration on renewable energy projects has a positive impact in Colombia and around the world in terms of reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change. By minimizing energy consumption and reducing emissions, Konica Minolta contributes to the global effort to reduce the carbon footprint and promote more sustainable practices in the country. Furthermore, by being among the most sustainable companies globally, Konica Minolta sets an example for other companies and can influence the adoption of greener practices in Colombia and elsewhere. Your commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment, but can also have a positive impact on environmental awareness and the transition towards a green economy in the country.
Komatsu LATAM
Komatsu, with more than a century of history, originated in Japan as a company committed to improving the quality of life of the community. Founded by Meitaro Takeuchi, it began in the modernization of a copper mine and evolved into machinery manufacturing in various sectors, maintaining a strong focus on quality, innovation and corporate social responsibility. Komatsu's globalization began in the 1950s, expanding internationally. Its philosophy remains, focused on creating value through manufacturing and technological innovation. The company also focuses on sustainability, including reducing CO2 emissions and water conservation. In short, Komatsu is a company with a long history and a strong philosophy that prioritizes collaboration with diverse communities and the long-term success of society.
How do they contribute to the sustainability of the region?
Komatsu Colombia is actively involved in the preservation of the Amazon, collaborating with the Saving The Amazon Foundation. Its actions include recycling electronic equipment, cleaning and restoration volunteers, and reforestation projects such as the so-called “ecological restoration project.” Additionally, they promote awareness and provide support to indigenous communities. This commitment reflects the importance of the private sector in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
Ricoh Company, Ltd
Ricoh, with more than 80 years of experience since 1936, is a leader in the printer and copier market. In 1987, they rose to prominence by creating the world's first compact, affordable digital office copier, leading office automation and transforming the way people work. Ricoh supports more than 1.4 million businesses globally. At Ricoh Latin America, they are dedicated to helping people work smarter through technological solutions and promoting digital adoption. Its principles, based on the "Spirit of the 3 Loves" of its founder Kiyoshi Ichimura, emphasize love of neighbor, country and work, guiding its way of doing business and its commitment to the well-being of people, including their families. .
How do they contribute to the sustainability of the region?
Ricoh has a strong focus on building a sustainable society through a balance between economic prosperity, social well-being and environmental preservation. They have identified seven material problems in two main areas: solving social problems through business and managing strong infrastructure. The company has committed to 17 relevant Environmental, Social and Governance objectives. One of the highlighted objectives is to achieve a "Zero Carbon Society" by 2050, with the ambition to completely eliminate greenhouse gas emissions throughout the value chain. Targets have also been set to reduce emissions by 63% by 2030 (compared to 2015 levels), an internationally validated target. Additionally, many of Ricoh's operations run on 100% renewable electricity such as the assembly of multifunction printers. These efforts demonstrate Ricoh's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
Panasonic: Towards a Carbon Neutral Future
Panasonic Latin America S.A., headquartered in Panama and present in several countries in the region, is part of the Panasonic Corporation group, a world leader in the development and manufacturing of electronic products for a wide variety of needs, covering the industrial, commercial and consumption in general. The company was founded in 1970 and is dedicated to providing technological solutions in the Latin American region. Its focus ranges from the manufacturing of electronic devices to the offering of products and services for companies and consumers.
How do they contribute to the sustainability of the region?
Panasonic has made a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations by 2030 and is making rapid progress towards this goal. They have achieved a 50% reduction in CO2 equivalent emissions compared to 2019, thanks to the use of 100% fossil-free electricity in their operations. In addition, Panasonic focuses on the development of eco-efficient products such as Heat Pumps for greater sustainability and low-consumption heating, Hydrogen fuel cells for a cleaner energy transition, Mobility components for electric vehicles, etc. vehicle and solutions. that contribute to reducing their environmental footprint. This commitment not only benefits the environment, but also encourages the adoption of cleaner technologies in Colombia, thus contributing to the global effort for sustainability and emissions reduction.
Sony: Commitment to Sustainability
Sony Corporation is a Japanese multinational based in Tokyo that has a significant presence in Colombia in the consumer electronics and audiovisual entertainment sector. In Colombia, Sony offers a wide range of products and services including televisions, audio devices, cameras, video game consoles, movies and music. In addition, Sony has contributed to the Colombian economy through the sale and distribution of its products in the country, generating employment and offering cutting-edge technology to Colombian consumers. The Sony brand is widely recognized and appreciated in Colombia for its quality and commitment to innovation in the field of electronics and entertainment.
How do they contribute to the sustainability of the region?
Sony contributes to Colombia through its commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. The company works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in its operations and products such as headphones developed with recycled plastic and services that include televisions, cameras, video game consoles, movies and music, thus promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency, also promotes the minimization of resource consumption and the maximization of the use of recycled materials in its operations and products. In addition, Sony sets standards for the management of chemicals in its raw materials and components, and strives to protect biodiversity throughout the life cycle of its products. These initiatives contribute to addressing the challenges of climate change and promoting sustainability in Colombia.
In Colombia, prominent Japanese companies, such as Hitachi Energy, Konica Minolta, Komatsu, Ricoh, Panasonic and Sony, are playing a fundamental role in promoting sustainability and technological development in the region. These companies have established a series of commitments, from the reduction of carbon emissions to the implementation of sustainable technologies, to contribute to the protection of the environment and the economic growth of Colombia. Their focus on innovation, energy efficiency and corporate social responsibility demonstrates their commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable future for the country, while creating jobs and promoting green practices in the region. In short, these Japanese companies are leaders in technology and sustainability, and their influence is evident in their positive impact in Colombia.
References
· Ricoh presenta dos informes clave para su estrategia de sostenibilidad "Ricoh Group ESG". Asociación Colombiana de Ingenieros de Sistemas - ACIS. Recovered of https://acis.org.co/portal/content/noticiasdelsector/ricoh-presenta-dos-informes-claves-para-su-estrategia-de-sostenibilidad-%E2%80%9Cricoh-group-esg
· "Komatsu Colombia y Saving the Amazon: Una Alianza Contra la Crisis Climática." Komatsu Latinoamérica. Recovered of https://www.komatsulatinoamerica.com/colombia/komatsu-colombia-y-saving-the-amazon-una-alianza-contra-la-crisis-climatica/
· Sony. Ambiente. Recovered of https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/csr/eco/RoadToZero/gm_en.html
· Panasonic GREEN IMPACT. Recovered of https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/es/es/sobre-nosotros/lo-que-hacemos/panasonic-green-impact
· Hitachi Energy - Avanzando hacia un futuro energético sostenible para todos. Recovered of https://www.hitachienergy.com/latam/es/sustainability/sustainability-overview
· "Así Avanza Hitachi Energy en Nuevas Fuentes de Energía." (2023, mes día de la publicación). La República. Recovered of https://www.larepublica.co/especiales/empresas-por-la-transicion-energetica/asi-avanza-hitachi-energy-en-nuevas-fuentes-de-energia-3555241
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