CATEGORY 38 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST INNOVATIONS NSK Oceania has taken a significant step towards sustainability with its ongoing ‘Going Green’ Campaign, initiated in 2019. This initiative focuses on refurbishing used dental handpieces and redistributing them to areas in need across the Pacific. By accepting trade-ins of used handpieces from customers in Australia and New Zealand, NSK Oceania has given a second life to over 1,500 handpieces by the end of 2023, with an additional 330 repaired and donated since the beginning of 2024. Furthermore, equipment that cannot be repaired is dismantled and recycled appropriately. These revitalised tools are donated to dental clinics in Fiji, the Solomon Islands, and other Pacific nations, making quality dental healthcare more accessible in regions facing limited resources. Beyond addressing regional disparities in healthcare, the ‘Going Green’ Campaign contributes to reducing environmental waste, embodying NSK’s commitment to both healthcare and the environment. A broader commitment to sustainability While NSK Oceania’s efforts reflect a strong regional impact, they are part of a larger, global strategy. NSK’s commitment to sustainability extends across all regions, united by a vision to create a “Fuller Life” and a “Happier Planet.” The company invests in various initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, supporting communities, and preserving the environment. NSK Nakanishi Foundation Scholarships provide support to students pursuing careers in dental healthcare, while company-organised Tours for Children inspire future generations by offering Creating a better world: NSK Oceania’s ‘Going Green’ Campaign and global sustainability initiatives insights into corporate operations. These initiatives underline NSK’s belief in empowering youth for a better tomorrow. Advancing Dental Healthcare Globally From Domestic and International Seminars to hands-on training, NSK focuses on elevating dental care standards worldwide. By bolstering repair support systems in different regions and donating refurbished equipment, NSK ensures that healthcare providers have access to essential tools and resources. For instance, in Latin America, NSK America Latina Ltda. supports underserved communities through direct healthcare services, while NSK Dental Spain S.A. promotes healthy eating among vulnerable groups, recognising the vital connection between nutrition and health. Embracing Cultural and Social Responsibility NSK fosters community spirit through initiatives like the NSK Rising Event, which promotes cultural activities, and by supporting professional sports teams to encourage health and unity. Additionally, NSK America Corp. extends support to food relief programs for children and provides aid to women and children in need, showing a dedication to social welfare beyond healthcare. Environmental Responsibility: Reducing, Recycling, and Renewing NSK has achieved Scopes 1 and 2 Carbon Neutrality at its Head Office Factory and A1 Factory by switching to 100% renewable energy in 2021, powered by solar and wind. This milestone marked the launch of “zero emissions manufacturing” and included installing solar panels at the new “A1+” Factory, upgrading equipment, and using environmentally friendly packaging. Carbon credits under the J-Credit Scheme were also utilised to offset remaining emissions. With this achievement, NSK is now focusing on reducing indirect emissions (Scope 3) to enhance sustainability across its entire supply chain. Key measures include implementing Σ Panels to cut energy consumption, a Power Saving Visualisation System to boost awareness, and transitioning from plastic to paper packaging. NSK also recycles industrial waste and maintains a Wastewater Treatment Facility to protect the environment. Additionally, deploying Electric Vehicles (EVs) underscores NSK’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint A Shared Mission Across Regions From the Americas to Asia-Pacific, NSK’s global sustainability initiatives embody a commitment to healthcare, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The ‘Going Green’ Campaign is just one example of how NSK Oceania is leading by example in Australia and New Zealand, demonstrating that small changes can contribute to a broader global movement for a healthier, more sustainable future. u For more information about NSK’s sustainability activities visit www.australia.nsk-dental.com/sustainability Solar panels installed at NSK’s A1 Factory in Kanuma, Japan to provide 100% renewable energy for manufacturing. Phil Fitzgibbon with a clinic in Fiji and the donated equipment from our Going Green campaign
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