Canon Q&A: Streamlining Sustainability & Regulation
Wamda Saeid-Elsirogi, Senior Manager of Sustainability Regulatory Affairs at Canon EMEA (Europe Middle East and Africa) and Chair of DIGITALEUROPE’s Sustainability Policy Group, explores how to streamline sustainability, the role of regulation and advice for sustainability leaders.
Please introduce yourself and your role.
I'm Wamda Saeid-Elsirogi, Canon EMEA's Senior Manager of Sustainability Regulatory Affairs. In this role, I guide the company through the ever-changing world of sustainability regulations, ensuring our operations remain compliant while also championing policies that encourage both innovation and a circular economy.
Additionally, I chair DIGITALEUROPE’s Sustainability Policy Group, where I collaborate with other industry leaders to develop policy recommendations that will help build a sustainable digital future for Europe.
What is DIGITALEUROPE’s Sustainability Policy Group?
DIGITALEUROPE's Sustainability Policy Group (DSPG) is an organisation representing thousands of European businesses and multinational corporations, specifically focusing on sustainability policy.
The group addresses four key areas—chemicals, eco-design, waste and responsible business conduct—each managed by a dedicated working group. Its purpose is to provide industry perspectives and insights on proposed technology laws and regulations, offering alternative strategies and highlighting the real-world impacts on businesses.
How do reporting standards impact sustainability at Canon?
Complex and inconsistent reporting requirements divert resources away from actual sustainability initiatives. Streamlined, standardised EU-wide frameworks are crucial for Canon and other businesses to effectively track progress and focus on tangible environmental action.
While the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulations (ESPR) will come into force between 2026 and 2030, Canon has already started shaping its own Digital Product Passport (DPP) framework, leveraging our expertise in product design, manufacturing, lifecycle management and the unique challenges faced by the tech industry.
We are dedicated to utilising DPPs to advance our own sustainability goals and contribute to a more circular economy.
What is the current regulatory landscape for sustainability in businesses?
The regulatory landscape for sustainability is rapidly evolving, particularly in the EU, with a strong focus on digital transparency and circular economy initiatives.
The European Green Deal is driving this shift, leading to key regulations like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).
These regulations, along with others like the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), are significantly expanding reporting requirements and emphasising transparency for businesses operating within the EU and beyond. Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are emerging as a key tool for navigating this increasingly complex environment.
By providing comprehensive product data throughout its lifecycle, from design to disposal, DPPs empower businesses to make data-driven decisions that promote sustainable practices, resource efficiency and compliance with evolving regulations. While this evolving landscape presents challenges, it also creates opportunities for businesses to demonstrate leadership, foster innovation and contribute to a more sustainable future.
What impact does increased reporting requirements have on businesses?
Increased reporting requirements present both challenges and opportunities for businesses.
On the one hand, they can strain resources, requiring investment in data management systems, personnel and training. The complexity of navigating diverse and sometimes conflicting regulations can also be a significant burden, particularly for smaller businesses.
However, increased reporting can also drive positive change. It encourages greater transparency and accountability, pushing companies to improve their sustainability performance. It can also provide valuable data insights that inform strategic decision-making and identify areas for innovation. Ultimately, the impact depends on how effectively businesses adapt and integrate reporting into their overall sustainability strategy.
Those who view it as a strategic tool rather than a compliance burden are more likely to reap the benefits.
Reporting should be a tool that empowers your sustainability journey, not a burden that holds you back
What challenges does increased reporting and fragmented legislation pose for businesses?
The main challenges are increased complexity, cost and confusion. Fragmented legislation means businesses have to navigate a maze of different requirements, often duplicating efforts and struggling to keep up. This complexity can stifle innovation and make it harder for businesses to effectively contribute to a more sustainable future.
What needs to happen at the company, regional and global level to support sustainability leaders managing reporting?
At the company level, we need to invest in robust data management systems and build internal expertise to handle reporting efficiently. At the regional level (like the EU), harmonised reporting standards and a more unified approach to regulation are crucial. Globally, greater alignment and collaboration between governments and international organisations would be incredibly helpful in creating a level playing field and driving progress towards shared sustainability goals.
What advice do you give to sustainability leaders managing reporting in their company?
For sustainability leaders navigating the complexities of reporting, my advice is threefold:
First, be strategic. Align reporting with your broader sustainability goals, using it to drive progress and demonstrate impact, not just tick boxes.
Second, embrace efficiency. Invest in smart data systems and build internal expertise to streamline the reporting process.
Finally, be a voice for change. Collaborate with industry peers and policymakers to advocate for simpler, more effective reporting frameworks that support meaningful action.
Remember, reporting should be a tool that empowers your sustainability journey, not a burden that holds you back.
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