New Toshiba Printer Erases Paper For Reuse

Toshiba today unveiled a multifunction printer for the office environment that can erase paper for reuse up to four times. 

Toshiba is touting the environmental benefits of this first-of-its-kind printer, noting that if the same paper is used to its full extent (five times total), it constitutes a 57 percent reduction in the system's total CO₂ emissions.

The printer uses a special toner whose color is removed by passing the paper through high temperature. The machine also has ability to sort paper into reusable and un-reusable sheets at the same time as removing the toner color, and to digitize the documents prior to erasing. Normally, documents that have been used, for example, at a meeting, are either filed away or scrapped, but with this system, the contents of the documents can be converted into data and saved for future use.

The printer also contains parts made with bioplastics, thoughToshiba did not state to what extent bioplastics are employed.

The printer will be available in Japan beginning in February 2013, followed by a worldwide roll out, Toshiba said.

Earlier this year, Toshiba America Business Solutions (TABS) was the first company to partner with Adobe Systems to distribute its new software that reduces the amount of ink or toner needed to produce documents.

@Bart_King is a freelance writer and communications consultant.