Innovation in PCB Removal Technology - March 15, 1998-present

The use of a special polymer material, "polynorbornene," in PCB removal technology has achieved significant cost reductions and improved efficiency compared to conventional methods. Polynorbornene has a far superior ability to adsorb polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) compared to other polymer materials, and it has been confirmed that adsorbed PCBs do not re-dissolve.

This technology involves adding a small amount of polynorbornene to water containing PCBs to efficiently remove the PCBs. While traditional treatment methods cost 25,000 yen per ton, this new treatment method can reduce costs to below 3,000 yen. Additionally, the space required for treatment is reduced to one-fourth of the conventional method, and the treatment time is reduced to one-fifth, further improving operational efficiency.

This technology is expected to play a critical role in PCB treatment within Japan. It is particularly noteworthy as an effective treatment method for dealing with the corrosion and leakage of PCB-containing drums that have exceeded their storage life. Furthermore, the polynorbornene-based treatment method offers advantages over incineration, including lower environmental impact and the avoidance of dioxin generation.

As this technology becomes more widespread, it may influence international PCB treatment standards, not just within Japan. The Ministry of the Environment and related companies are expected to further promote the practical application and dissemination of this technology, representing a crucial step toward solving the PCB problem.

### Current Status in the 2020s

The status of PCB removal technology in the 2020s has seen significant progress due to advances in technology and strengthened regulations.

### Technological Advances
1. **Widespread Adoption of Advanced Treatment Technologies**:
- In Japan, **Mitsubishi Materials** has commercialized PCB removal technology using polynorbornene and other new adsorbent materials, deploying it nationwide. This technology has been implemented in treatment facilities in **Chiba Prefecture** and **Osaka Prefecture**, enabling efficient and low-cost treatment.
- In the **United States**, environmental services company **Clean Harbors** uses similar technology to treat PCB waste, with facilities in **New York State** and **California** utilizing it.

2. **Introduction of New Technologies**:
- Research on PCB degradation technology utilizing nanotechnology is being conducted by **Fujitsu Laboratories** in Japan, with tests for practical application being carried out in **Kawasaki City**. Additionally, **Bayer** in **Bavaria, Germany**, has developed bioremediation technology for use in the treatment of PCB-contaminated soil.

### Strengthening of Regulations and Management
1. **Strengthening of International Regulations**:
- Under the Stockholm Convention, regulations on the use and disposal of PCBs have been strengthened in many countries. In Japan, the Ministry of the Environment is leading efforts to complete PCB waste treatment by 2025, with large-scale treatment projects underway at facilities in **Hokkaido** and **Aichi Prefecture**.
- In **Canada**, **GFL Environmental** operates a specialized PCB treatment facility in **Ontario**, contributing to nationwide PCB disposal efforts.

2. **Improvement of Management Systems**:
- In Japan, the management and tracking systems for PCB waste have been strengthened, with proper treatment being ensured at facilities in **Tokyo** and **Nagoya**. This ensures that the process from storage to treatment is strictly managed.

### Challenges and Future Outlook
1. **Existence of Untreated PCBs**:
- In emerging markets like **India** and **Indonesia**, untreated PCBs still pose environmental risks. In these countries, inadequate treatment infrastructure necessitates international support. For example, in **Mumbai, India**, PCB treatment is lagging, leading to a collaborative project between the local government and **Clean Harbors**.

2. **Establishment of Sustainable Treatment Technologies**:
- In Japan, **Hitachi Ltd.** has developed new PCB treatment technologies that are low-cost and environmentally friendly, with implementation ongoing at treatment facilities nationwide. In the **Kyushu** region, Hitachi's technology is currently being applied. Additionally, **RWE** in Germany is working on improving PCB treatment technologies with the aim of expanding across Europe.

### Conclusion
PCB removal technology in the 2020s has made significant progress due to technological innovations and strengthened government regulations, but challenges remain in certain regions. Moving forward, international cooperation and further advancement in technology will be key to achieving sustainable environmental protection.