3. Recycling Port Project - April 2003

3. Recycling Port Project - April 2003
Kitakyushu Port, adjacent to the Hibikinada Eco-Town in Kitakyushu City, has been designated as a recycling port, improving the efficiency of waste management. In this project, a facility capable of handling 5,000-ton-class cargo ships has been constructed, processing approximately 500,000 tons of industrial waste annually. In particular, waste recycling has been promoted, making the recycling port a crucial hub for the formation of a circular economy in Japan. Kitakyushu Port has achieved an industrial waste recycling rate of over 90% through the Eco-Town project.

4. Use of Biodiesel Fuel - April 2003
An environmental project in Niigata Prefecture utilizes biodiesel fuel made from used tempura oil in a food waste composting system. This system processes 500 tons of food waste annually, and the resulting compost is supplied to local farmers for organic farming. By using waste oil, carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by 20% compared to conventional fossil fuels, contributing to sustainable local agriculture. This project is in collaboration with Niigata City and is regarded as a regional eco-model.

7. Charred Wood Environmental Technology - April 2003
The Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth (RITE) has been advancing charred wood technology, particularly using Moso bamboo as a biomass energy source. Moso bamboo grows across Japan, and approximately one million tons are carbonized annually. This technology transforms carbonized bamboo into soil improvement materials and deodorants, contributing to agriculture and waste management. Furthermore, it is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by about 30% compared to fossil fuels, making it a key measure in combating global warming.

11. Wind and Solar Hybrid Power Generation - April 2003
A hybrid power generation system combining wind and solar energy was installed in Osaka City. The system consists of 26 wind turbines and 39 solar panels manufactured by Zephyr Corporation, and it is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by about 30 tons annually. This energy powers public lighting, and Osaka City aims to increase its energy self-sufficiency. The project is part of an effort to promote clean energy use in the region, and further expansion is anticipated.

15. Solar Thermal Power Generation and Desalination Technology - April 2003
Duke Solar Energy in the U.S. has developed a system that combines solar thermal power generation with desalination technology, aimed at arid regions and developing islands. The system uses excess thermal energy to convert seawater into 100,000 liters of fresh water per day, supplying local communities with potable water. The technology is expected to be used in resort areas and desert regions, with implementations targeted in the U.S. and the Middle East.

16. Biodegradable Plastic "New Wood" - April 2003
Matsui Corporation in Ishikawa Prefecture has developed "New Wood," a biodegradable plastic made from wood powder and resin. This material decomposes 30% faster than conventional plastics, reducing environmental impact. It is applied to automotive interior parts and household goods, with an annual production forecast of 5,000 tons. The automotive industry, including companies like Toyota and Honda, has adopted this material to reduce environmental burdens.