Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture: Wood Biomass Utilization Center Initiatives (2004–2020s) - June 2004

Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture: Wood Biomass Utilization Center Initiatives (2004–2020s) - June 2004

Located in Hanno City, "Mokunen Kobo" has been promoting projects to utilize locally sourced wood biomass to create a sustainable circular society. In 2004, it began producing wood pellets and charcoal using thinned wood and sawmill offcuts as raw materials. These fuels were supplied to local wood stove users and agricultural fuel needs, achieving an annual reduction of 1000 tons of CO₂ emissions at public facilities such as community centers and schools in Hanno City. It has also contributed to local job creation through forest maintenance.

**Progress in the 2010s**
During the 2010s, Mokunen Kobo expanded its production capacity to 3000 tons of pellet fuel and 500 tons of charcoal annually. Collaboration with local sawmill operators ensured a stable supply of wood biomass resources. Additionally, the distribution network for biomass fuel expanded across the Kanto region, meeting increased demand and constructing new facilities.

**Current Status in the 2020s**
In the 2020s, Mokunen Kobo entered the international market, beginning export operations of biomass fuel to Taiwan and South Korea, with an annual export volume exceeding 5000 tons. Moreover, pellet boilers were introduced at local school lunch facilities, reducing annual energy costs by 20%. At the same time, a "high-efficiency wood carbonization furnace" was implemented, improving charcoal production efficiency by 25%.

Currently, Mokunen Kobo's annual revenue exceeds 10 billion yen, and it is recognized nationally as a model project that balances the sustainable use of forest resources with regional economic development. Requests for site visits and technical cooperation have also increased domestically and internationally, establishing its position as a leader in promoting sustainable forestry.