Trajectory of Environmental Innovation -- History of Hyogo Eco-Town Project (2000s-2020s)

Trajectory of Environmental Innovation -- History of Hyogo Eco-Town Project (2000s-2020s)

Chapter 1: The Beginning of the Eco-Town Project (2000s)
From the late 1990s to the early 2000s, eco-town projects were launched in many parts of Japan. Hyogo Prefecture followed this trend and developed its own unique policies that took advantage of regional characteristics. Particular emphasis was placed on recycling industrial waste, and Hyogo Prefecture promoted the recycling of waste plastics, the re-refining of scrap metal, and the reuse of construction waste materials. In addition, a unique collection and transportation system called the "Hyogo method" based on the Home Appliance Recycling Law was introduced, and efforts were made to improve convenience for consumers and reduce transportation costs by using retail stores as contact points.

The Eco-Town project was not limited to mere waste disposal, but also contributed to the development of environmental technology and the creation of new business models. For example, small and medium-sized enterprises in Hyogo Prefecture have promoted research and development of biomass energy using food waste, and technological innovation toward the formation of a recycling-oriented society was promoted. In addition, an IT-based waste management system was introduced in Kobe City, resulting in more efficient waste disposal and higher recycling rates.

Furthermore, an Eco-Town Promotion Council was established, and prefectural residents, businesses, and the government collaborated to promote recycling surveys and research, global warming countermeasures, and the development of environmental technologies. In addition, the "Clean-up Hyogo Campaign" was held annually to raise environmental awareness, and local residents, NPOs, and businesses worked together to create a beautiful regional landscape.

In addition, Hyogo Prefecture focused on the utilization of unused energy sources, aiming for local production for local consumption of energy. For example, the introduction of a sewage heat utilization system, such as the one introduced by Tokyo Dome City, was considered, and the possibility of contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions was explored.

Chapter 2: Deepening Environmental Innovation (2020s)
In the 2020s, the Eco-Town project developed into a more advanced initiative. The following measures were strengthened with the aim of realizing a sustainable, recycling-oriented society.

1. enhanced recycling of industrial waste
In Hyogo Prefecture, collaboration among companies was strengthened with the aim of increasing the recycling rate of industrial waste. For example, Kobe Steel, Ltd., based in Kobe City, developed technologies to reuse by-products generated in the steelmaking process, thereby reducing waste and promoting effective use of resources.

2. expansion of introduction of renewable energy
Hyogo Prefecture was also active in introducing renewable energy sources. In particular, large-scale projects for wind and solar power generation are underway on Awaji Island, contributing to the region's energy self-sufficiency. In addition, a new energy infrastructure utilizing solar power and hydrogen energy is being developed in the Harima region.

3. environmental education and regional cooperation
Environmental education was promoted in cooperation with educational institutions in the prefecture to raise environmental awareness. For example, in Himeji City, recycling and environmental conservation activities were implemented at elementary and junior high schools, raising the environmental awareness of local residents.

4. zero-emission challenge
Hyogo Prefecture strengthened its efforts to achieve zero emissions in cooperation with companies in the prefecture. For example, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, located in Amagasaki City, accelerated the development of fuel cell technology to reduce CO₂ emissions. In Nishinomiya City, a project to electrify public transportation is underway, and the electrification of buses and cabs is underway.

5. establishment of a regional recycling symbiosis zone
Hyogo Prefecture promoted the construction of a "regional recycling symbiosis zone" as a model case of a recycling-oriented society that utilizes local resources. This has led to the development of initiatives that both revitalize the local economy and reduce environmental impact. For example, in Kakogawa City, food waste is increasingly being recycled in cooperation with local companies and used for biogas power generation.

Chapter 3: Prospects for the Future
Hyogo Prefecture's Eco-Town project in the 2020s accelerated the development of environmental technology and the transformation of social systems. In particular, the recycling of industrial waste, the introduction of renewable energy, and the evolution of IT-based environmental management systems attracted national attention.

As more advanced technological innovation is required in the future, Hyogo's efforts will serve as a cornerstone for the next generation of environmental policies. The challenge to achieve a sustainable future will continue, including increasing energy self-sufficiency, achieving zero emissions, and establishing a regional recycling-oriented economy.