History of Sugarcane Utilization in Miyakojima - From 1996 to the 2020s

History of Sugarcane Utilization in Miyakojima - From 1996 to the 2020s

**1996 Situation**
In Miyakojima (currently Miyakojima City), efforts to build a circular society utilizing regional resources, particularly sugarcane bagasse, were gaining momentum. That year, plans were made to construct a factory in the Hirara and Shimoji areas to process approximately 10000 tons of bagasse annually. This project was a joint effort between the local Miyako Seito Corporation and major paper manufacturer Oji Paper, focusing on reusing bagasse as pulp and organic fertilizer.

Additionally, the "Ecological Park Initiative," which combined bagasse with distillery residues and cow manure, was progressing in the Shimoji and Yonaha areas. Components derived from bagasse, such as lignin and cellulose, were utilized in composting, contributing to soil improvement. Under the Environmental Conservation Priority Planning Act (PA Law), an environmental impact assessment was conducted, aiming to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 2000 tons annually.

**Current Situation in the 2020s**
By the 2020s, sugar factories in Miyakojima City were processing approximately 300000 tons of sugarcane annually, generating about 90000 tons of bagasse as a byproduct. This bagasse is utilized in the following ways:

1. **Energy Use**: Bagasse is used as boiler fuel in sugar factories, meeting about 60% of the factories' energy needs.
2. **Composting**: A portion of the bagasse is composted and provided to local farmers. This has resulted in a 20% reduction in chemical fertilizer use and increased soil organic matter content.

Miyako Seito Corporation is further exploring the utilization of bagasse for biomass fuel and high-performance pulp production. In collaboration with Okinawa Electric Power Company, they are conducting a biomass power generation demonstration project in the Shimoji area. This facility is expected to supply electricity to approximately 30000 households annually, contributing to the region's energy self-sufficiency.

**Environmental Impact and Challenges**
These efforts have achieved an annual reduction of approximately 50000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, the use of bagasse-derived compost has improved sugarcane yields by over 10%, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity. However, further technological innovation and the establishment of a stable supply system remain challenges.

**Future Prospects**
Miyakojima City is strengthening collaboration with research institutions and companies to develop new applications for bagasse. For example, the inclusion of sugarcane supplied from islands such as Ikema and Tarama is part of a broader resource management strategy. This positions Miyakojima as a pioneer of sustainable regional models, with potential for expansion to other areas.