Epson has launched the PaperLab A-8100, a papermaking system that returns used printed-on paper back into new clean paper – aimed at sectors that are still heavily paper-based but want to become more sustainable.
While digitalisation has helped to reduce the number of documents that are printed in some sectors in recent years, there are others that are still predominantly paper-based. But, with sustainability concerns to the fore, these businesses are still looking for ways to reduce their impact on the environment and paper is a key part of that.
While recycling is commonplace, it still requires purchasing more paper, and with it comes emissions etc from its shipping. But now Epson has launched a solution, the PaperLab A-8100 Refresh Model, which provides an alternative.
Epson claims that PaperLab is the world’s first office papermaking system that turns used printed-on office paper into new clean paper using a water-free process, on site and on demand.
Available now, the A-8100 builds on its predecessor, the A-8000, while introducing enhanced functionality that increases the range and variety of paper types that can be processed.
The original PaperLab A-8000 was first launched in Europe in 2019 and was the world’s first dry office paper-making machine. Since then, companies in various sectors, including financial services, manufacturing and government have taken to it for its ability to process confidential information responsibly. The A-8100 builds on this success with improved features in response to customer feedback and the evolving demands of the market.
The A-8100 retains key features that underpin Epson’s commitment to environmental sustainability and confidential information processing, while contributing to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Enhanced model
Notable enhancements to the refresh model include an advanced internal sensor that automatically detects the type of paper being used, optimising production settings without the need
for manual customisation. This advancement not only streamlines the paper production process but also enhances user experience.
Key features include:
- Dry fibre technology: Using Epson’s proprietary dry fibre technology, the A-8100 converts standard used office paper into high-quality fibres without requiring water, ensuring a more sustainable approach to paper production that significantly reduces environmental impact
- Automatic optimisation:
The new model features an intelligent system that automatically adjusts manufacturing settings based on the type of paper input. This allows users to mix multiple types of paper, specifically limited to copy paper, thereby maximising efficiency and versatility - Environmental contribution visualisation: Responding to customer requests, users can now monitor their environmental impact through Epson’s cloud solution PORT. This feature provides real-time data on the environmental contribution value based on paper production volumes, accessible from PCs and smartphones, making it easier for companies to monitor their sustainability efforts and communicate them effectively
- Expanded paper sizes: The A-8100 introduces an extended A3 size option, supporting A3 perfect binding and saddle stitching, in addition to the conventional A4 sizes. This flexibility allows businesses to produce a much wider range of printed materials in-house.
Committed to sustainability
The PaperLab A-8100 is designed to empower businesses to create paper on-site from used printed-on paper, significantly reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional paper production methods, including the need for purchasing and transporting paper. This solution contributes to sustainability as well as enhancing confidentiality by enabling companies to process documents securely on-site, mitigating risks associated with sensitive information handling.
“Epson has long been dedicated to sustainability and innovation in the workplace,” said Andreas Asel, Epson Europe. “The new A-8100 PaperLab represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide businesses with the tools they need to operate sustainably while securing the confidentiality of their information. We are proud to continue our tradition of excellence and innovation with this new model.”
Epson remains committed to advancing sustainability in the office environment, and the A-8100 PaperLab is testament to the company’s dedication to creating practical, environmentally responsible solutions for the modern workplace, enabling businesses to produce their own paper on-site and to reduce waste.