Exploring Biomass and Biofuels Trends in the Era of Carbon Divergence

Seminar on Biomass and Biofuels in the Carbon Divergence Era

The Japan Planning Institute (JPI) is set to host a seminar titled "Exploring Biomass and Biofuels Trends in the Era of Carbon Divergence" on May 22, 2026. The seminar will feature Shunsuke Kawagishi, a senior researcher in the Energy and Sustainability Division at Mitsubishi Research Institute. He will provide in-depth analyses of the latest trends and future outlook for biomass and biofuels, considering the current landscape characterized by carbon divergence.

Overview of the Seminar

This seminar will offer insights into the recent shifts in the biomass and biofuel sectors, contextualized within the ongoing changes related to energy security and long-term demand forecasts. Participants can expect to learn about new developments in the supply of bioethanol, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and biomass fuels. The presentation will also cover domestic and international supply chain dynamics and trends concerning the value of environmental assets.

Kawagishi will discuss the critical need for carbon stock considerations in biomass utilization and shed light on the potential for strengthening biomass's value through mechanisms such as carbon credits. He will detail key considerations based on global discussions, aiming to guide stakeholders in their future deliberations.

Key Seminar Items

1. Latest Trends in Biomass and Biofuels
- Progress in institutional design within GXETS
- External environmental changes affecting energy and biofuels: long-term perspectives in the VUCA era
- New developments in bioethanol, SAF, and biomass fuels

2. Trends in Domestic Value Chains
- Movements in SAF value chain formation
- Developments concerning FIT/FIP systems and the future of domestic biomass

3. Trends in International Value Chains
- Current shifts in bioethanol markets
- Developments in FIT/FIP systems and the future of imported biomass
- Movements towards enhancing the environmental value of decarbonized fuels

4. Promoting Biomass as a Means for Carbon Stock Formation
- Carbon credits and their role in carbon stock formation
- Trends related to ICAO CORSIA and carbon credits
- Issues surrounding natural forests in carbon stock formation

5. Summary
6. Q&A Session
7. Networking Opportunity

This seminar presents a unique opportunity for direct interaction with experts, allowing attendees to engage in meaningful dialogue and discussions not usually accessible in traditional formats. Networking across industries will also encourage connections that may lead to new collaborations and practical insights.

Participation Details

Participants can choose between various formats:

- On-site attendance (archive option not included)
- Live streaming (archive option not included)
- Archive viewing available separately

For those attending in person or via live stream, a special rate of 18,500 JPY (tax included) allows access to the archive post-event.

Fees

- Individual Registration: 37,330 JPY (tax included)
- Group Registration (two or more from the same organization): 32,330 JPY per person (tax included)
- Discount for Local Government Employees: 11,000 JPY (tax included, limited to on-site or live stream, same participation format)

For more details or registration, please visit: JPI Seminar Registration

Post-Seminar Interaction

Post-event, inquiries for the speaker and participant networking will be facilitated, enhancing collaboration opportunities and the development of new business ventures. The archive will remain available for those interested in attending afterward.

Contact Information

Japan Planning Institute
Address: 5-2-32 Minamiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0047
Phone: 03-5793-9761
Fax: 03-5793-9767
Website: www.jpi.co.jp

About JPI

For half a century, JPI has bridged the gap among government, private sectors, and academia, providing valuable information in a seminar format to support national policy development and initiatives. Their focus is on creating knowledge that facilitates effective governance and business leadership.