As a core component of display products, every backlight module (BLM) used to undergo a cumbersome process before entering the cleanroom: it had to be “undressed and bathed.” These delicate precision components were first wrapped in thick protective packaging for transportation, then unpacked in a buffer zone and washed before use. The process consumed large amounts of materials, water, and time. To reduce the environmental impact of this procedure, Radiant Opto-Electronics developed an innovative magnetic plate packaging solution, significantly cutting down on both packaging materials and water usage.

Introducing Magnetic Technology to Create a Circular Packaging Model

With the adoption of magnetic technology, backlight modules can now be securely attached inside their containers—much like magnets on a refrigerator—ensuring stability throughout transportation with minimal movement. The simplified structure of the magnetic plates eliminates many cleaning steps. What was once a labor-intensive, water-based washing process has been replaced by a dry dust-removal method. This transformation not only reduces the use of single-use packaging and conserves water, but also cuts cleaning labor time by more than 95%.

In terms of packaging design, the R&D team replaced the original adhesive-based cushioning process with a die-cutting method, cleverly integrating L-shaped and flat components into a single foldable flat design. This innovation streamlines production, reduces plastic consumption, and enhances packaging compatibility and reusability. More than just a creative idea, the magnetic plates are backward-compatible and reusable multiple times, achieving an impressive 98% packaging recovery rate. Between 2022 and 2024, Radiant incorporated a total of 2,495 metric tons of recycled materials—equivalent to replacing virgin plastic from 100 million PET bottles—successfully establishing a circular ecosystem for packaging materials.

Beyond the Cleanroom: Cross-Sector Collaboration for Resource Reuse

Radiant’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the cleanroom and into the broader community. To prevent resources from being discarded as electronic equipment is upgraded, Radiant’s Kaohsiung facility has participated in the ASUS Foundation’s “Computer Regeneration Program.” Obsolete computers and monitors are securely wiped of sensitive data and then donated to underprivileged groups, students, seniors, and people with disabilities, helping expand access to digital learning tools and bridge the digital divide.

To date, this initiative has facilitated the reuse of 5,269 IT devices, reducing carbon emissions by 18.91 metric tons—equivalent to saving 1,575 trees from being cut down. From technological innovation in magnetic packaging to giving renewed life to used computers, Radiant integrates circular economy principles into its core operations, demonstrating its distinctive and enduring sustainability value.

ESG in Action

Aligned SDGs:SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Key Initiatives:

Leveraging magnetic technology to reduce resource waste and increase packaging circularity

Promoting computer regeneration programs to give retired equipment a second life

Website link: https://csr.cw.com.tw/esgaward/article/1063