Building on its commitment toward a Design for Sustainability approach computer peripherals and software producer Logitech International has, among other things, increasingly turned to the use of post-consumer plastics in various of its well-known product lines. The PCR programme launched three years ago. By the end of next year, the company will have shipped more than 50 million devices made with PCR plastic. Additionally, over 50% of the mouse devices and keyboards produced produced in its Creativity and Productivity portfolio, the company’s largest portfolio, will incorporate PCR plastic, in line with its aim to focus on utilising PCR plastic in products that account for the most units sold globally. This alone will eliminate an estimated 7,100 tons of virgin plastic and 11,000 tons of carbon per year.
“The top area where we can make a significant and long-term impact to reduce carbon is by applying our design for sustainability principles across the product development process,” said Prakash Arunkundrum, Global Head of Operations and Sustainability at Logitech. “Since plastic is one of the most used materials at Logitech, we’re investing in the circular economy by recycling and reusing consumer products to push the limits of what is currently possible for recycled plastic.”
The company’s latest product made with PCR plastic is the new Ergo M575 mouse, with the graphite colour containing 50% fand the off-white, 21% recycled plastic. Starting with this mouse, the PCR content of each product will henceforth be validated by independent, third-party experts and transparently shared on the company’s website. The percentage of recycled plastic in each product will vary depending on the type, colour and material make up of a product. The percentage of PCR used currently ranges a minimum of 20% - for technically complex, light-coloured products - up to 80%. Logitech’s design goal is to continue to maximise the percentage of recycled content in each product.
Logitech is also working with plastic suppliers to design new and stronger resins in a range of new colours, expanding on what is possible today. The company is also working with external partners to develop a roadmap of sustainable materials for the future, as well as sustainable packaging advancements.