Ways of Thinking about Water Resource Conservation
Available freshwater accounts for only about 0.01% of the Earth's total water resources. Given the anticipated increase in water consumption driven by economic growth and population growth, we recognize water scarcity as one of the most pressing global risks — making water resource conservation an essential for us.
As risks of extreme water shortages is becoming higher as one of social issues, the Panasonic Group has been working to conserve water resources both in its products and production activities, in order to fulfill its social responsibility and to reduce risks in the management. Our Environmental Policy sets that we make efforts to conserve water resources by using water efficiently and preventing water pollution. We are committed to reducing water usage in our business activities and through our products and services, positioning water resource conservation as one of our continuing efforts under the GREEN IMPACT PLAN 2028. The plan identifies the promotion of water resource management as a key initiative, under which the Group will strengthen management at sites with high water risk.
For promoting these activities, the Panasonic Group has established a framework for environmental management, including water management. Through a PDCA-based management approach, we continuously enhance our environmrntal management practices. Futhermore we have also established an environmental risk management system to identify environmental risks each fiscal year and continue to reduce them. Through this system, the Panasonic Group promotes risk management across the Grope and works to ensure that prompt and appropriate actions can be taken when environmental risks emerge.
Furthermore, the Panasonic Group participated in the Water Project, a public-private awareness-raising initiative launched by Japan's Ministry of the Environment in 2014, as well as its successor framework, the Waterside Environmental Activities Platform. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and encourage the conservation and restoration of waterside environments. It promotes collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including local communities, companies, NPOs, and government agencies, while providing an information platform that facilitates interaction among participating initiatives and disseminates relevant information. The Panasonic Group will work in cooperation with the Japanese government and other companies to conserve water resources.
LEAP analysis of water resources based on the TNFD Framework
Although our Group had already implemented a water risk assessment by fiscal 2018, we have started to reassess the risks in view of evolving assessment standards and changes in the business environment. We are presently working on identifying and assessing risks related to water resources and their impact, in compliance with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) Framework. As part of this effort, we are conducting systematic risk assessment based on the LEAP Approach*1 at all of our manufacturing sites.
The first phase of the process is "Locate," which defines the relationship between our site's location and natural capital. Specifically, we use the water risk assessment tool Aqueduct from Water Resources Institute (WRI) and Water Risk Filter from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to assess the position of each of our manufacturing site vis-à-vis the natural environment and have conducted assessments of water stress and water quality contamination risks. As a result, we have been able to identify sites where water resources face high levels of physical risk. On some of these high-risk sites, aggressive action is already underway to reduce the physical risks. These cases are presented on our website.
In the "Evaluate" phase, we conduct detailed assessments of the high-risk sites identified during the Locate phase. These assessments examine their dependencies on water resources (including the types of water used, purposes of use, and water withdrawal volumes), as well as the impacts of wastewater discharge (including discharge methods and destinations and proximity to protected areas). This enables us to evaluate each site's degree of dependency on water resources and its impact on the natural environment.Specifically, we are reviewing water use at each site, including the purposes for which water is used in manufacturing processes (such as cleaning, cooling, and boilers), water withdrawal volumes and water quality, and wastewater treatment methods and discharge destinations. For processes that are highly dependent on water of a particular quality, we also examine whether substitution is possible and whether alternative means are available, assessing these factors from the perspectives of business continuity and risk reduction.
The "Assess" phase is designed to identify clearly the projected risks and opportunities based on the assessment results. At the "Prepare" phase, we decide how to apply our findings to defining effective targets and developing countermeasures.
*1 LEAP approach
TNFD adopted the LEAP approach to comprehensively assess nature-related risks and opportunities.
The LEAP approach comprises four phases: Locate the company's interfaces with nature; Evaluate its dependencies and impacts on nature; Assess its nature-related risks and opportunities; and Prepare and report on material nature-related issues.
Water Stress Risks (Percentage of High-Risk Site)
*Excluding the factories within Panasonic Automotive Systems Corporation, which was deconsolidated in December 2024
Water Pollution Risk (Percentage of High-Risk Site)
*Excluding the factories within Panasonic Automotive Systems Corporation, which was deconsolidated in December 2024
Efforts to reduce risks at sites with high physical risk regarding water resources
Physical water-related risks refer to risks that directly affect production activities or equipment operations due to changes in water availability or quality caused by drought, water pollution, flooding, and other factors. Physical risks are divided into acute risks, which arise from increasingly frequent sudden weather-related disasters and have an immediate impact on operations, such as flooding, and chronic risks, whose impacts become apparent as water-resource conditions change over the long term, such as increasing water stress and deteriorating water quality. In addition to identifying and assessing these risks, the Panasonic Group is advancing initiatives at its sites to reduce their dependencies on and impacts on water resources.
Considering the potential effects of these risks on its business activities, the Group is also assessing their financial impacts, including operational shutdowns and increased costs.
PT. Panasonic Gobel Energy Indonesia
PT. Panasonic Gobel Energy Indonesia has started an initiative to reuse condensate from RO (reverse osmosis membrane) systems, which was previously discharged, as water for cooling towers. This reuse not only reduces the amount of water required to operate the cooling towers, but also reduces electricity consumption and the amount of chemicals used for water treatment.
Through these efforts, they have reduced their water consumption by approximately 23,904 m3 per year, and CO2 emissions by 10.44 tons per year.
Panasonic Life Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. Kutch Factory
The Kutch Factory of Panasonic Life Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. is located in an arid desert area, where water is procured by tanker trucks.
The Kutch Factory is located in an area of India where water is quite valuable and expensive, so they are actively promoting the reuse of rainwater and automation of the water supply system. First, the roof of the raw water tank was renovated and improved so that it could efficiently collect rainwater. The collected rainwater is reused for gardening, the driver's waiting room, and hand washing in the cafeteria area. In addition, there was previously no control function for sending water from the raw water tank to the tank at the factory, which caused issues with water overflowing when supplying water.
To address this issue, automatic operation functionality was introduced to enable them to properly control the water level of the tank and prevent water from overflowing. In addition, a new submersible pump was introduced for transporting the water, achieving conservation of both water and energy. Through these efforts, they were able to reduce water consumption by approximately 154 m3 per year, resulting in cost savings of 15,076 INR (Indian Rupee).
Panasonic Home Appliances Refrigerator (Wuxi) Co., Ltd.
Panasonic Home Appliances Refrigerator (Wuxi) Co., Ltd. is strengthening its wastewater and rainwater management systems and actively promoting environmental conservation initiatives.
To start, they are carrying out a complete renewal of drainage pipes and related facilities, and are strictly controlling the separation of drainage pipes and storm drains through regular testing and maintenance.
They are also periodically checking the quality of rainwater to ensure that it remains in an appropriate condition. Identification labels are also affixed to all rainwater wells in the workplace to prevent the dumping of waste by people.
In addition, new shutoff devices and collapsible emergency pools have been installed at the storm drains, and regular drills are being conducted to prevent runoff in the event of contamination.
Panasonic Corporation Hikone Factory
The Hikone Factory of Panasonic Corporation is implementing a variety of measures to minimize its impact on the water environment.
First, they have established their own standards for measuring water quality that are stricter than the standards set by prefectural and municipal ordinances, and are managing water quality at a higher level.
They also provide annual training on environmental laws and regulations for departments that have specified facilities related to the Water Pollution Prevention Act and for environmental promotion personnel in each department to improve compliance with laws and regulations as well as increase environmental awareness.
As part of their wastewater management system, they have installed wastewater monitoring panels equipped with a pH meter, turbidity meter, and UV meter to monitor wastewater 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
When an abnormal value is detected, an alarm is issued from the monitoring equipment and a system is in place to respond promptly.
Panasonic Corporation Resource Recycling Factory Kato
At Panasonic Corporation Resource Recycling Factory Kato, instead of the conventional wet cleaning method, a dry cleaning method has been adopted in the cleaning process of recycled resin that does not use any water at all. Wet cleaning carries the risk of microplastics contamination in wastewater, and dry cleaning can significantly reduce this risk.
This dry cleaning system is a repurposed rice milling system and has been installed on a limited basis at the Kato Factory and some outside partner companies. This highly unique approach reduces water use and prevents the release of microplastics. These measures are effective approaches to two important environmental issues: the conservation of water resources and the prevention of marine pollution.
Water Resource Conservation through Products
By thoroughly analyzing the use of water through our products, we have developed functionalities that allow a considerable amount of water conservation by utilizing water at a maximum level through improvement of water flow control and cyclic use. We continue to develop products with low water usage.
Dishwasher/Dryer (Front Open Type)
The front-open dishwasher NP-60EF1W features a large capacity capable of accommodating tableware for up to 12 people, enabling users to wash a full day's dishes in a single cycle. This reduces the burden of household chores while also contributing to lower water consumption during dishwashing.
Compared with hand washing, the product uses approximately one-ninth the amount of water (approximately 15.1 L versus 133.6 L for hand washing), equivalent to saving around 59 two-liter bottles of water per cycle, thereby supporting water conservation. Moreover, when electricity, gas, water, and detergent consumption are converted into CO2 emissions (based on the Company's estimates), dishwashers result in lower emissions than hand washing.
In addition to the 60 cm model, a new 45 cm front-open dishwasher (NP-45EF1W) was introduced in 2025, expanding installation flexibility and promoting wider adoption, which further contributes to water savings.
The product also features powerful washing performance using high-temperature, high-pressure water jets, eliminating the need for pre-rinsing before loading dishes. Furthermore, the newly designed "food residue filter" incorporates the Company's proprietary technology, including an automatic cleaning system that cleans the filter during each stage of the washing process, thereby reducing the frequency of post-operation maintenance.
Flat Drum Washing and Drying Machine LX Series
Compared with vertical washing machines, the LX series of flat drum washers and dryers can save about 30% of electricity consumption during washing and about 67 L of water used, thereby contributing to the conservation of water resources. Considering the energy required for water treatment in tap water and sewage, saving water also contributes to reducing CO2 emissions. In addition, the triple automatic injection of liquid detergent and softener prevents excessive use of detergent, thereby reducing environmental impact. By using the extra-large refill type, the amount of plastic used in detergent containers can be reduced by about 88%.
Rhythm e Shower Plus
By changing the flow rate and temperature of the shower at a constant rhythm, we achieved energy savings of up to 20% and water savings of up to 10%.
A single sensor and flow sensor detect the use of the shower and a flow control valve and control technology allow the shower flow to fluctuate at high speed.
*Rated on our company's own terms. The numbers are strictly nominal and vary depending on usage.
*According to JIS C 9220 load condition of household heat pump water heater at our company test facility. Summer hot water heating mode Heating conditions: Outside air temperature (dry-bulb temperature/wet-bulb temperature) 25 degrees C/21 degrees C Water temperature 24 degrees C Hot water set temperature 40 degrees C Direct hot water supply and shower use time 5 minutes/time (when using bathroom shower only). Total shower flow: Rhythm e Shower Plus ON (setting: strong) 45 L/OFF 50 L JP, J, W, FP, F Series Energy saving in full auto: Rhythm e Shower Plus ON (setting: strong) 2.6 MJ/OFF shower heat 3.3 MJ Water saving condition: Rhythm e Shower Plus ON (setting: strong) 8~10 L/min Shower flow in OFF 10 L/min
Flat range hood with cleaning function
Range hoods are prone to accumulating oil residue, and a single cleaning typically requires approximately 28 liters of water.
The flat-type range hood DW Series, equipped with AI Econavi and an automatic cleaning function, simplifies maintenance by allowing users to pour hot water into a dedicated tray, set it in the unit, and press the "clean" button. The system then automatically removes oil collected in the fan filter. With cleaning required only about once every two months, the fan filter can be maintained for approximately 10 years without removal, reducing water usage associated with routine cleaning.
This product reduces maintenance effort while achieving both ease of cleaning and water conservation.
* When the cleaning indicator lamp on the main unit lights up, the fan filter should be cleaned using the automatic cleaning function.
* The automatic cleaning function is designed to maintain ventilation performance; some minor residue may remain over time depending on usage.
* The approximately 10-year maintenance period is based on operation at medium ventilation speed for five hours per day. When continuous ventilation is used, cleaning frequency increases to about once per month, and the lifespan of the fan filter may be reduced to approximately half. Replacement timing may also vary depending on cooking conditions and usage environment (e.g., high levels of steam or dust). The automatic cleaning function can continue to be used after replacing the fan filter.
Initiatives for Water Resource Conservation through Production Activities
The Panasonic Group reuses a portion of the wastewater generated from production processes, air-conditioning systems, and other sources. This reduces both water withdrawal from external sources and wastewater discharge, thereby alleviating the impact of water withdrawal and discharge from production activities on water resources. Many regions around the world are threatened by water shortages. The Panasonic Group therefore monitors water withdrawal and discharge at each site and uses water risk assessment tools to identify priority regions and advance relevant initiatives. Water withdrawal at factories in fiscal 2026 was 13.45 million m3, a slight year-on-year decrease of 0.2%. Water withdrawal at factories per basic unit of production*2 was 2.76, deteriorating year-on-year due to the decline in production output. The use of recycled water*3 in fiscal 2026 was 1.33 million m3, accounting for 9.9% of total water withdrawal. Wastewater discharge has continued to decline, totaling 10.60 million m3, 10.45 million m3, and 10.23 million m3 in fiscal 2024, fiscal 2025, and fiscal 2026, respectively.
Going forward, the Group will strengthen its response, particularly at sites with high water risk, based on the water-use characteristics of each site.
*2 Change from "Water consumption" to "Water withdrawal" in reference to GRI standards
*3 Water withdrawal at factories per basic unit of production = Water withdrawal at factories/Production volume.
Water Withdrawal in Production Activities and Water Withdrawal Per Basic Unit
* Then-SANYO Electric and Panasonic Liquid Crystal Display not included in fiscal 2010
FY2026 Breakdown of Water Use (by region)
(10 thousand m3)
Panasonic Industry Co., Ltd., the operating company that uses the largest amount of water within the Group, recorded water withdrawal of 5.46 million m3 in fiscal 2026, up 2.7% year-on-year, partly due to increased production. Meanwhile, through measures such as recycling water at its factories, water withdrawal per basic unit of production was reduced to 94% of the previous year's level.
Against the backdrop of the increasing occurrence of natural disasters in recent years, such as earthquake and flood disasters, Panasonic Industry Co., Ltd. Saga site achieved a reduction of environmental risk and environmental impact, considering a possible chemical leakage from the outdoor storage site in the company premises. This was accomplished by replacing their water purification system, which used a chemicalbased regeneration method for the ionexchange resins, to a system that uses an electrical regeneration method.
At the same time, the company installed a wastewater collection system that separates the wastewater generated by the water purification into concentrated wastewater and collection water. The company is now able to reduce the water consumption for the entire factory by 61.8 thousand m3 per year by reusing the collection water.
The Panasonic Group will continue our efforts to conserve water resources.
Device Solutions Business Division Saga, Panasonic Industry Co., Ltd.
Water purification system with electrical resin regenerator