Panasonic Vietnam and Cao Phong (owner of Cho Lon Electronics - Furniture Supermarket) have partnered to launch a pilot program for electronic waste collection. This initiative, formalized through an agreement in late September, will initially focus on used air conditioners across Vietnam's Southern and Central regions.

The program will run until March 2027, with a target of collecting 500-1,000 old air conditioners. To facilitate this, consumers purchasing any Panasonic product at Cao Phong's retail stores can register to sell back their used air conditioning units.

Once collected, the electronic waste will undergo a structured process of dismantling, material sorting, and recycling into reusable resources. This will proceed upon the completion of all necessary permits.

Representatives from Panasonic Vietnam and Cao Phong at the signing ceremony in TP HCM in late September. *Photo: Panasonic*

This pilot program is a timely response to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, clearly outlined in Vietnam's 2020 Environmental Protection Law. Effective from 1/1/2025, these regulations mandate that manufacturers are responsible for collecting and recycling electrical and electronic products at the end of their lifecycle.

According to Takayasu Fujino, General Director of Panasonic Vietnam: "This initiative marks our commitment as a manufacturer and importer of household appliances. We aim to establish a practical model for collecting, dismantling, sorting, and recycling electronic waste, thereby fostering a circular economy in Vietnam."

The program aligns with Panasonic Group's broader commitment to sustainable development, a key component of the long-term Panasonic Green Impact initiative launched in 2022. This initiative focuses on two core pillars: carbon neutrality and a circular economy. The company anticipates reducing environmental impact throughout its products' lifecycle, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Vietnamese consumers.

Founded in 1918 in Osaka, Japan, Panasonic Group comprises Panasonic Holdings Corporation, six main companies, and subsidiaries globally. The company operates across diverse sectors, including: AI infrastructure equipment and support (batteries, electronics, industrial equipment); operational solutions (B2B, air quality, air conditioning, cold chain, power, and lighting); and smart life products and services designed to enhance living quality.

As of April, Panasonic maintains a substantial presence in Vietnam with seven companies and over 7,000 employees. These entities include: Panasonic Vietnam, Panasonic Sales Vietnam, Panasonic R&D Center Vietnam, Panasonic Appliances Vietnam, Panasonic System Networks Vietnam, Panasonic Industrial Devices Vietnam, Panasonic Electric Works Vietnam, and Panasonic Insurance Service Vietnam.

Dong Ve