In a groundbreaking move toward a greener future for IT hardware, Hitachi Ltd. is making a significant leap in data storage sustainability. The company is set to utilize recycled plastic in its data storage products, particularly the models installed in data centers for corporate and government organizations with strict safety standards. This innovative initiative is part of Hitachi's ongoing commitment to conservation and recycling, with the ultimate goal of fostering a more resource-efficient society.
Hitachi Vantara's commitment to sustainability takes center stage as the company introduce the integration of recycled plastic materials into the bezel—the front cover—of its upcoming storage model. The recycled plastic material, designed by Teijin Limited in Japan, is a blend of recycled polycarbonate resin and ABS resin, two environmentally friendly materials.
Recycled polycarbonate resin itself is derived from materials found in CD and DVD disks, water bottles for water coolers, and even automotive headlight covers. The diligent process of shaping and evaluating this recycled plastic material ensures that it complies with the stringent safety standards required for storage products used in corporate and government organizations. Factors such as flame resistance, aging degradation, and molding precision must be meticulously addressed, as these Hitachi storage solutions are intended for long-term use in corporate and government data centers.
Hitachi Vantara showcased these new storage designs in October. These environmentally conscious products that feature the recycled plastic bezels will soon be available on a global scale, according to Hitachi.
Moving to Recycled Materials
Hitachi's ambitious commitment doesn't end here. The company has set a challenging target to achieve a 50 percent usage rate of environmentally friendly materials within its storage business by fiscal year 2030. To realize this vision, Hitachi will continue its efforts to conserve and recycle resources by exploring various approaches, including the expanded use of recycled plastic and the adoption of parts made from a combination of recycled and biomass materials.
Hitachi's journey toward a more sustainable future is aligned with its long-term environmental targets, outlined in its Hitachi Environmental Innovation 2050 vision. These targets aim to create a decarbonized, resource-efficient society that is harmonized with nature. This vision is built on a foundation of addressing global environmental challenges and integrating them with Hitachi's management policies.
Reducing CO2 Emissions in Storage Products
The ever-increasing demand for data storage solutions, driven by generative AI and digital transformation, has prompted Hitachi to focus on reducing CO2 emissions from its storage products. The company plans to achieve this by adopting highly efficient power supplies and developing functions that contribute to reduced power consumption.
Additionally, Hitachi recognizes the vital role of plastic usage in global sustainability efforts, leading to the exploration of recycled plastic integration in storage solutions as part of its ongoing commitment to resource conservation and recycling.
Learn how to reduce your environmental impact using Hitachi Vantara Sustainability Solutions and Services.