Biomass Utilization by Agri-Future Joetsu, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture - Current Status in the 2020s

Biomass Utilization by Agri-Future Joetsu, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture - Current Status in the 2020s

In the 2020s, Agri-Future Joetsu (Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture) is further expanding its community-based biomass utilization business. The company is producing biomass plastic and bioenergy by utilizing unused local wood from thinning and agricultural waste (rice, wheat straw, vegetable residues, etc.). The biomass resources processed annually amount to about 30,000 tons, of which about 10,000 tons are thinned wood and agricultural waste. In addition, the annual production of biomass plastic has increased to approximately 7,000 tons, which is used both within and outside the region.

In particular, Agri-Future Jouetsu is strengthening industry-academia collaboration with Kyoto University and a local company, Daiwa House Industry Co. The introduction of new technology has improved the quality of biomass plastic, producing products with superior durability and recyclability. For example, furniture and building materials made of biomass plastic have been introduced in public facilities and schools in Joetsu City, and eco-friendly building materials are becoming increasingly popular.

In addition, progress is also being made in energy supply through the use of biomass. A biomass power generation facility installed in Joetsu City uses biomass resources collected in the region as fuel and supplies enough electricity to power approximately 8,000 households annually. The power generation facility purchases wood from thinning and agricultural waste from local farmers and forestry officials, thereby contributing to the revitalization of the local economy.

Agri-Future Joetsu is also expected to have a significant CO2 reduction effect, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 10,000 tons per year. This reduces environmental impact both within and outside the region and contributes to the realization of a sustainable society. We are also focusing on the production of biochar and using this technology to improve soil and crop productivity. 2021 will see the start of an agricultural project in Joetsu City that uses biochar, which is expected to further reduce environmental impact and have economic benefits.

It is believed that Agri-Future Joetsu will continue to make maximum use of local resources while expanding the possibilities of biomass utilization and contributing to the sustainable development of Joetsu City and the entire region.