Water Resource Conservation
Policy / Basic Approach

Water Resources Policy

As the world economy develops and the world’s population grows, the risks posed by water shortages and water pollution have become global in nature. Companies, too, are required to respond to these water-related issues. At Canon, we rely on numerous water resources in its production processes. We have therefore formulated a Policy on Water Resources, and we work both to promote the effective use of water and to prevent water pollution. We also recognize that water is closely linked to climate change and other environmental issues, and we understand impact on the environment.
Based on our corporate philosophy of kyosei, at Canon we are working with various parties—including local communities and our suppliers—to reduce our use of water resources, and to minimize our impact on the environment.

• We recognize that the safe and secure use of water resources is a human right, and we shall act accordingly.
• We comply with all applicable laws in each country/region and other requirements agreed upon with stakeholders, and pursue reduction of water consumption and elimination of hazardous substances in all corporate activities.
• Taking international frameworks and regional policies and initiatives into consideration, we actively support and participate in water resource conservation initiatives.
• We establish an Environmental Management System (EMS) and establish and periodically review water-related objectives and targets to prevent water pollution, and steadily reduce water consumption.
• We comply with all applicable regulatory standards, and establish site standard values for wastewater that are more rigorous than these regulatory standards, with the goal of preventing pollution.
• We proactively carry out various activities aimed at restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity.
• We are working to reduce water consumption by consistently meeting our target for reduction of water consumption at operational sites.

Water Risk in Regions Where Production Sites Are Located

Canon assesses locations to confirm available water intake volume before establishing operational sites and facilities. We use the AQUEDUCT water-risk mapping tool provided by the World Resources Institute* for quantitative evaluation and reconfirmation of water risk in regions where production sites are located, and work to reduce water consumption in response to local conditions. Meanwhile, in some regions, an increase in abnormal weather patterns has increased the risk of flood damage. We have already begun implementing appropriate responses to climate change. In Japan, for instance, we have relocated the Miyazaki Canon site, replacing the former riverside structures with new buildings on higher ground. Similarly, at our Thai production site, we used an elevated site to build Plant No. 2. Going forward, we will continue our progress with the formulation and updating of risk response plans to increase resilience.

• * World Resources Institute: WRI is an independent institute based in the United States that conducts policy research and provides technical assistance concerning environmental and development issues around the world.

Water Risk (Quantitative) in Countries and Regions with Major Production Sites

• * Result of “physical risk quantity” assessment of production sites (as of end of 2020) using AQUEDUCT water-risk mapping tool (Version 3) (as of February 2024)