This week in Circular Economy in Japan (7 May)

Report reveals untapped potential of urban mining

Digglue, in collaboration with KDDI Corporation, has supported the release of Emulsion Flow Technologies’ (EFT) environmental report “First-time Smartphone Recycling,” which highlights the environmental benefits of recycling used mobile phones and smartphones. These devices contain various metal resources, and recycling them can reduce the use of virgin materials and suppress CO2 emissions generated during resource extraction and refining. However, currently, 64.6% of used devices are left unused in homes.

The report showcases the potential reductions in virgin material usage and CO2 emissions achievable through recycling these devices. It aims to raise awareness of material recycling as an essential and accessible initiative for each consumer and encourage participation in recycling mobile phones and smartphones. EFT, KDDI, and digglue will continue to promote material recycling of these devices, contributing to the realization of a sustainable future society.

Kaunet begins experiment to close the loop on plastics in Tokyo

Kaunet, a Kokuyo Group company, launched a pilot project called “Kaunet Loopla” on 1 May to promote the recycling of used clear holders. The project aims to collect used clear holders from businesses in Tokyo’s 23 wards and turn them into new resources. By focusing on resource conservation, waste reduction, and the provision of circular products and services, Kaunet aims to contribute to a sustainable circular society and reduce plastic waste.

The main goals of “Kaunet Loopla” are to diversify the uses of used plastic products, reduce CO2 emissions, raise environmental awareness among workers, and support recycling activities at businesses. The pilot project will target Kaunet’s “Benri Net” service customers in the 23 wards of Tokyo, with plans to expand the target area and companies when the full service launches. The project will run from 1 May to the end of June, focusing on challenges in collection operations, distribution quality verification, and the re-molding and evaluation of containers using recycled materials.

TOKYO CORK PROJECT circulates cork materials in new project

The TOKYO CORK PROJECT, led by GOOD DEAL COMPANY, recycles discarded cork stoppers from Tokyo’s restaurants and retail stores, turning them into regenerated cork material. This material is now incorporated into the unique Underground Library of KURKKU FIELDS in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture. The library, designed by Takashi Nakamura of NAP Architects and curated by Yohei Kawakami, features cork benches, stairs, and corner guards for bookshelves. The project aims to establish a recycling network in large consumption cities, promoting sustainability and the use of eco-friendly alternatives.