Ripples of Circulation - Plastic Bottles and the Future of the Environment

Ripples of Circulation - Plastic Bottles and the Future of the Environment

Japan's PET bottle recycling rate reached 869% in FY2022, maintaining a high level by global standards. While resource recycling is progressing due to lighter bottles and the promotion of "bottle-to-bottle" recycling, the marine litter problem is becoming more serious. According to a survey by the Ministry of the Environment, plastic, including PET bottles, accounts for 658% of Japan's marine plastic litter, and approximately 260,000 tons are discharged into the ocean from Japan annually. This raises concerns about the destruction of marine ecosystems and adverse effects on fisheries.

The government has set forth a "Plastic Resource Recycling Strategy," which calls for a 25% reduction in plastic use by 2030. Companies are also stepping up their recycling activities, with Suntory introducing 100% sustainable plastic bottles and Teijin Fibers and Sumitomo Corporation aiming to improve recycling efficiency through automated collection machines. In Hiroshima City, recycling facilities have been established, and local governments and companies are working together to promote resource recycling.