Samsung is not only committed to delivering innovative products and services, but also to protecting the environment and fostering a culture of sustainability. Samsung is envisioning a world where technology can exist together with people to preserve the planet for future generations in six major ways.

Everyday Sustainability: Small actions, big impact

Samsung knows that sustainability is not something that can be achieved by one company or one person alone. It requires collective action and participation from all stakeholders, including customers, partners, employees, and communities. That is why Samsung is encouraging South African consumers to join its mission of “Everyday Sustainability” by taking small actions together for a better planet in their daily lives.

Samsung believes that small and subtle changes in daily life can actually have a huge impact as a whole on the environment. These small changes come together to make everyone’s lives more sustainable – that is Samsung’s story of sustainable life. For example, by choosing products that are made with recycled materials, using eco-friendly packaging, saving energy, and recycling or upcycling old devices, consumers can contribute to reducing waste, emissions, and resource consumption.

Samsung is striving to create inclusive and social innovations that empower everyone to build a better tomorrow, together. The company is also inspiring customer participation by offering various incentives and benefits for those who adopt sustainable practices. For instance, Samsung Rewards members can earn points by taking eco-friendly actions such as using the ECO mode on their appliances, registering their products online, or donating their old devices to Samsung’s e-waste recycling program. These points can then be redeemed for vouchers, discounts, or donations to environmental causes.

Planet-First: A comprehensive environmental strategy

Samsung’s vision of “Everyday Sustainability” is aligned with its environmental strategy – its Planet-First philosophy. This is a comprehensive plan for Samsung to join global efforts to tackle climate change and achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The current environmental challenges, together with the upcoming commemoration of Global Earth Day on April 22, have prompted Samsung to strengthen its governance even further and ensure that ‘sustainability’ continues to be a top priority in all its business operations.

Samsung’s Planet-First philosophy covers four key areas: Recycled Materials, Eco-Packaging, Energy Efficiency, and Recycling or Upcycling. These are the pillars of Samsung’s product lifecycle journey, from sourcing to disposal. In each area, Samsung is setting ambitious targets and implementing innovative solutions to minimise its environmental impact and maximise its social value.

Recycled Materials

Samsung is expanding the use of recycled materials across a range of product categories, such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, TVs, monitors, refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, and more. By using recycled materials instead of virgin materials, Samsung can reduce its carbon footprint and resource consumption. For example, Samsung’s Galaxy S21 series uses 100% recycled plastic in its back cover, while its Eco Remote Control is made from 28% recycled plastic. Samsung also uses recycled paper for its product manuals and packaging.

Eco-Packaging

Samsung is eliminating single-use plastics and replacing them with eco-friendly alternatives in its product packaging. Samsung’s Eco-Packaging is designed to minimise waste and encourage reuse or recycling. For example, Samsung’s Lifestyle TV boxes can be transformed into various items such as cat houses, magazine racks, or shelves, while its Bespoke refrigerator boxes can be used as children’s playhouses or storage units. Samsung also provides QR codes on its packaging that link to online manuals or instructions for upcycling.

Energy Efficiency

Samsung is enhancing the energy efficiency of its products and services to help consumers save energy and money while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Samsung’s products are equipped with various features and modes that optimise energy consumption according to the user’s needs and preferences. For example, Samsung’s Wind-Free™ air conditioner uses AI technology to analyse the room temperature and humidity and adjust the airflow accordingly, while its Eco Bubble™ washing machine uses bubbles to wash clothes effectively at low temperatures. Samsung also provides energy-saving tips and information through its SmartThings app.

Recycling or Upcycling

Samsung is promoting the recycling or upcycling of old or unused devices to extend their lifespan and prevent e-waste. Samsung offers various programs and platforms for consumers to trade-in, donate, or sell their devices in exchange for rewards or benefits. For example, Samsung’s Galaxy Upcycling program allows users to repurpose their old smartphones into IoT devices such as baby monitors or pet cameras, while its e-waste recycling program collects and recycles devices from customers free of charge. Samsung also supports social initiatives that use recycled devices for education or healthcare purposes.

Join Samsung on its mission towards a sustainable future

Samsung is leading the way towards a sustainable future by creating products and services that are good for people and the planet. The company is also inviting South African consumers to join its mission of “Everyday Sustainability” by taking small actions together for a better planet in their daily lives. By choosing Samsung, consumers can enjoy premium technology that lasts with more power and less environmental impact. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for ourselves and our children.

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