Japan brings back washi as circular papermaking with original technology

Paper has been an intimate part of Japanese life and culture for more than a millennium. Paper made by traditional Japanese methods is called “washi.” Handmade washi paper has a warm texture, as well as resilience and durability that belies its remarkable thinness. People have cherished and treasured these qualities for centuries.

Environmentally friendly traditional Japanese papermaking

Washi is originally handmade from the bark of trees native to Japan, such as Kozo and Mitsumata. These trees have a fast growth cycle and can be harvested annually, so they do not contribute to rapid deforestation. That’s why it is an environmentally-friendly product. However, most of the paper produced in Japan today is Western paper, made primarily from wood pulp imported from the West.

Washi upcycling initiatives attracting attention

Recently, Japanese companies are rediscovering the value of traditional papermaking and creating new value in washi.

kome-kami

In 2021, PEPAL Inc., a Japanese company that sells paper and paper products, has launched an initiative to change the large amount of food waste to be disposed of into something of value. The first product developed is “kome-kami (rice paper),” a food-waste paper made from upcycled rice that would have been discarded. In fact, Japan has long had a culture of using rice for paper. Kome-kami is a traditional yet new material that uses innovative technology to revitalize an ancient Japanese culture.

Hanasaku Washi

SOUP Inc. plans and develops eco-friendly and sustainable products and services, focusing on selling seed paper. Seed paper is an environmentally friendly paper made by straining seeds of various flowers and herbs into used paper waste, which sprouts when planted in the soil. “Hanasaku Washi (washi to bloom)” is a new type of seed paper made from 100% recycled paper from Japan, with traditional Washi handmade techniques added. Even after it finishes its role as paper, it will continue to grow plants and return to the soil, realizing an excellent resource cycle.

Washi takes a lot of time and effort to make, but because it is made of natural materials, once it is made, many will not likely deteriorate for more than 1,000 years. Producers should use creativity and technology to make paper to allow for the recycling of resources. And we, as consumers, should carefully check the raw materials, place of origin and manufacturing process. Choosing paper that is truly environmentally friendly and purchasing only the amount we need can contribute to reducing wasteful consumption.

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