History and Current Status of Scallop Shell Recycling in Aomori Prefecture - 1997 to the 2020s

History and Current Status of Scallop Shell Recycling in Aomori Prefecture - 1997 to the 2020s

In 1997, Shikanai Wei Co., Ltd. in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture, began recycling scallop shells as a building material called "scallop tiles," contributing to local waste reduction and resource reuse. Aomori Eco-Cycle Industrial Cooperative is also developing detergents and nail products that use seashells. The Aomori Scallop Distribution Promotion Association also promotes the use of shells as a food additive and antimicrobial agent, contributing to higher shell recycling rates, but reducing emissions and expanding utilization remain challenges.