Recycling of Shochu Distillate Lees in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture - September 1997

Recycling of Shochu Distillate Lees in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture - September 1997

In 1997, Kirishima Shuzo and Kajima Corporation of Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, developed a methane fermentation system using shochu distillation lees, a byproduct of shochu production. In the 2000s, stable processing technology was established, resulting in an annual reduction of approximately 3,000 tons of CO₂ emissions. In the 2020s, 850 tons of dregs per day were processed, achieving an annual reduction of 4,500 tons of CO₂. Furthermore, we established "Imo Terrace" to supply healthy sweet potato seedlings, thus realizing a recycling-oriented society. The project has been recognized as a model case for local environmental conservation and economic revitalization.