The History and Current Status of "Ehime Blend" Development in the 2020s

The History and Current Status of "Ehime Blend" Development in the 2020s

Ehime Prefecture, located along the Seto Inland Sea, has been proactively working on unique environmental measures to prevent water pollution. In particular, the "Ehime Blend," a locally oriented water purification technology, was developed by the Ehime Prefecture Industrial Technology Center by combining microorganisms such as yeast, lactic acid bacteria, and natto bacteria. Developed in the early 2000s, this "Ehime Blend" was introduced mainly to food processing companies and fishery businesses within the prefecture, demonstrating effectiveness in reducing sludge and purifying wastewater.

The first demonstration experiment was conducted in 2000 at a food processing cooperative in Yawatahama City, reducing sludge generation in wastewater treatment processes by 30-40%, achieving an annual cost reduction of approximately 772 million yen. In the composting process, odor was also suppressed, increasing demand from neighboring farmers, resulting in locally significant achievements. This initiative drew attention within Ehime Prefecture and became a major step toward promoting Ehime's environmental technology and industrial development.

Expansion and Evolution in the 2020s

In the 2020s, the application scope of "Ehime Blend" has further expanded, with its introduction in food processing and fisheries industries in cities like Matsuyama and Uwajima within the prefecture. In a food processing company in Matsuyama City, the use of "Ehime Blend" in wastewater treatment processes achieved a 35% reduction in sludge generation and an annual cost reduction of approximately 800 million yen. Additionally, in a fishery processing company in Uwajima City, the product succeeded in purifying wastewater and suppressing odors, contributing to improving the living environment for local residents.

Furthermore, its application in the agricultural sector is also progressing. In a composting process at an agricultural corporation in Seiyo City, the use of "Ehime Blend" greatly reduced odor, leading to a 20% increase in demand from nearby farmers and an annual sales increase of approximately 500 million yen.

Balancing Environmental Conservation and Economic Effects

The environmental technology provided by "Ehime Blend" has brought significant results in reducing wastewater treatment costs and suppressing sludge generation for many companies within Ehime Prefecture, contributing to reducing environmental impact. Specifically, the average sludge reduction rate was reported at 30-40%, with annual cost savings between 500 million and 800 million yen, making it an indispensable environmental technology for local industries.

Future Prospects

Ehime Prefecture continues to pursue further industrial applications and dissemination of "Ehime Blend," focusing on research and development in the agricultural sector, where its use as a soil conditioner and odor suppressant for livestock is highly anticipated. Collaborations with companies both inside and outside the prefecture are also being strengthened, aiming to promote the development and dissemination of technology that reduces environmental impact.

In this way, "Ehime Blend" continues to play a significant role in the environmental conservation and industrial development of Ehime Prefecture, making a substantial contribution to the sustainable development of the regional economy and natural environment over more than 20 years through accumulated technology and application.