Ishizaka Sangyo granted Japan’s first advanced resource circulation permit

Ishizaka Gumi Inc. has become the first recipient of the Advanced Resource Circulation Business Certification under Japan’s new Act on the Advancement of Resource Circulation Businesses for the Promotion of Resource Circulation. The certification, designated as Minister’s Certification No. 0001, was granted on 8 May.

The certification recognises the company’s foundational role for resource circulation that contributes to the formation of Regional Circular and Ecological Spheres (R-CES). For Ishizaka Gumi, it is a starting point for the practical implementation of a circular society, as they believe that waste is a resource to be circulated rather than discarded. This approach aligns with national strategies regarding carbon neutrality, circular economy promotion, and the reduction of risks associated with improper waste treatment.

The newly certified business model integrates three core pillars to enhance sustainability. First, the company increases recycling rates through the introduction of advanced sorting equipment. Second, it implements measurable CO2 reduction effects by calculating the emissions saved through resource recovery. Third, it strengthens traceability by visualising the flow of resources, which assists partner companies in their ESG reporting and compliance.

Ishizaka Gumiaims to build a circulation model that goes beyond individual corporate boundaries to involve local governments and communities. Their model focuses on the advanced recovery of corporate waste, the improvement of regional resource loops, and the return of decarbonisation benefits to the local area. For partner companies, this system facilitates the reduction of Scope 3 emissions and helps build narratives for regional contribution while preparing for future regulatory risks.

Noriko Ishizaka, CEO of Ishizaka Gumi, shared that the company has worked since its founding in 1967 to ensure limited resources circulate back into society as “rematerials,” saying that the company will continue to build facilities using the latest technology to accelerate resource recovery in line with the new national policy. The company plans to focus on strengthening collaboration with local governments and establishing data platforms to further accelerate the transition to a circular economy.