History and Current Status of the Omuta Eco-Town Project - July 1999 to December 2023

History and Current Status of the Omuta Eco-Town Project - July 1999 to December 2023

In Omuta City, Fukuoka Prefecture, the Eco-Town project was approved by the national government in July 1998, marking the beginning of initiatives aimed at creating and fostering an environmental recycling industry. In the late 1990s, a technology for producing artificial zeolite was developed by reusing incineration ash and coal ash discharged from coal-fired power plants. This technology, which excelled in adsorbing and removing hazardous substances, was advanced through collaboration between Kyushu University and local companies. A demonstration plant was constructed, drawing attention as a model case for regional resource recycling and environmental preservation.

In the 2000s, Omuta Eco-Town saw the full-scale operation of recycling facilities, accelerating efforts for waste reduction and resource circulation. In 2002, the Omuta-Arake RDF Center began operations, introducing a system to convert waste into Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) for use as an energy resource. The Miike Port recycling base was also established, strengthening the infrastructure for wide-area recycling utilizing marine transport. By 2005, Total Care System Co., Ltd. fully launched its diaper recycling business, achieving an annual processing capacity of over 10,000 tons. Many companies, such as Mitsui Sumitomo Construction Co., Ltd. and Shibata Industry Co., Ltd., expanded their businesses, contributing to economic revitalization. However, the global financial crisis in 2008 led to a decline in demand for recycling markets, highlighting challenges.

Entering the 2010s, Omuta City strengthened its role through the introduction of new technologies and international expansion. In 2012, the Omuta Recycling Power Plant began biomass power generation, supplying electricity equivalent to approximately 5,000 households annually. In 2013, the Omuta Eco-Sank Center was established as a central hub for environmental awareness activities and corporate support. Transportation infrastructure also improved with the completion of the Ariake Coastal Road, increasing efficiency in logistics across Kyushu and boosting exports of recycled products. In 2011, Omuta City was designated as part of the "Green Asia International Strategic Special Zone," promoting technological exports and international partnerships, particularly to Asian markets. The diaper recycling business, led by Total Care System Co., Ltd., gained attention in Asia, with technology being adopted by hospitals and care facilities by 2016.

In the 2020s, Omuta Eco-Town has matured into a central hub for a circular economy. Mitsui Sumitomo Construction Co., Ltd. continues to process and recycle debris and asphalt, while Shibata Industry Co., Ltd. efficiently recovers valuable metals and rare metals from small home appliances. Total Care System Co., Ltd. expanded its diaper recycling capacity to 20,000 tons annually, further contributing to the region's waste reuse rate. In 2023, semiconductor-related companies entered the city, further strengthening its industrial base.

Omuta Eco-Town has grown into a key center for the environmental recycling industry over the past 20 years since its inception in the 1990s. Through the establishment of facilities, the introduction of new technologies, and expansion into international markets, it has significantly contributed to regional economic revitalization and environmental impact reduction. Moving forward, further technological innovation and strengthened collaboration with local communities are expected to advance efforts toward achieving a sustainable circular society.