#Japan #Sustainable Innovation #Tokyo #Bio-Based Plastics #Green Materials

Upcoming Green Materials and New Functional Materials Exhibition

The Green Materials & New Functional Materials Exhibition 2026, organized by JTB Communication Design (JCD) in collaboration with the Japan Processing Technology Association, is set to take place from January 28 to 30, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight. This exhibition aims to showcase the latest advancements in materials that balance environmental sustainability and functionality.

About the Exhibition

The event comprises two key themes:

• - Green Materials: Focusing on sustainable materials that benefit individuals, society, and the planet.
• - New Functional Materials: Highlighting functional materials that create new added value.

By concentrating on the theme of "Achieving High Added Value and Sustainable Manufacturing", this exhibition will present pioneering materials and technologies that reduce environmental impact while enhancing functionality. Among the featured innovations are bioplastics and wood-based materials, as well as specialized materials for PFAS removal, all contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.

Notable Products and Technologies from Exhibitors

Several exciting products and sustainable solutions will be showcased at the exhibition:
1. Kaneka
- Biodegradable Biopolymer: Made from 100% biomass-derived materials, this environmentally friendly polymer decomposes in soil and seawater. It's versatile and can be processed into products like straws, shopping bags, and cutlery.

2. Teijin
- Recycled Polyester Fiber (ECOPET®): This fiber is made from polyester waste generated during production processes or collected from used polyester products, utilizing either material recycling or chemical recycling methods.

3. Kurare
- Activated Carbon for PFAS Removal (FILTRASORB®): Utilizes specially selected coal to efficiently eliminate PFAS and various organic substances, demonstrating stable performance over time.

4. Panasonic Holdings
- Sustainable Material "Kinari": Consists of high-concentration cellulose fibers, which are moldable like conventional plastics and can utilize underutilized resources such as thinned wood.

5. Soken Chemical & Engineering
- Biodegradable Absorbent Polymer Sheet: Developed from plant by-products, this biodegradable sheet can retain and gradually release up to 20 times its weight in water, making it both an upcycled and environmentally friendly material.

Seminar Highlights

In addition to the exhibition, there will be informative seminars featuring industry experts discussing various topics related to sustainability:

• - January 28, 2026:

- High Added Value for Recycled Plastics and Value Chain Development by Mr. Hiroaki Sato, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology.
- Biomaterials Changing the World: Towards a Sustainable Future with Finance.

• - January 30, 2026:

- Developing Marine Biodegradable Plastics by Utilizing Marine Ecosystems by Mr. Kenichi Kasuya from Gunma University.
- Establishing a Resource Circular Economy as a Growth Strategy by Ms. Miki Imai, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Note that seminar participation requires prior registration, and may close once capacity is reached.

Environmental Initiatives

In a joint effort with ASKUL Corporation, JCD will lead an initiative to recycle used clear holders collected during the exhibitions. This activity will reintegrate these materials into office supplies, reflecting our commitment to environmental conservation.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Green Materials & New Functional Materials Exhibition
• - Organizers: JTB Communication Design Co., Ltd. and the Japan Processing Technology Association
• - Date: January 28-30, 2026
• - Location: Tokyo Big Sight West Halls 3 & 4
• - Number of Exhibitors: 200 companies and organizations across 286 booths (as of January 20, 2026)
• - Entry Fee: Free (pre-registration required)
• - Concurrent Exhibitions: 13 other conventions, including CONVERTECH, 3DECOtech, WELL-BEING TECHNOLOGY, and more.

This event is powered by the CO2 Zero MICE® initiative, ensuring that all electricity used at the venue comes from renewable sources, effectively achieving carbon neutrality.
For more information and registration, visit the official website: Green Materials Exhibition Official Website.