#Japan #Tokyo #SAF #Cosmo Energy #Used Cooking Oil

Sustainable Initiative in Tokyo

In a remarkable effort to turn waste into a valuable resource, Cosmo Oil Co., a subsidiary of Cosmo Energy Holdings, has launched a program for the collection of used cooking oil at 55 service stations throughout Tokyo. This initiative is part of a collaborative agreement signed in August 2023 with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, JGC Holdings Corporation, and Revo International Inc. The goal is to convert collected oil into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), thereby creating a sustainable resource cycle through community participation.

How the Collection Works

Starting from July 31, 2023, dedicated collection boxes have been installed at selected service stations within the Cosmo network to facilitate the recycling of household waste oil. Some sites began operations ahead of this date as part of preliminary trials that commenced in June 2024, based on insights gained from previous waste collection initiatives in Osaka. Under this program, residents can drop off used cooking oil at designated stations, where it will be collected for processing.

The collection process emphasizes the use of secure containers, like closed plastic bottles, which must contain only waste cooking oil—specifically, oil that has been used for home cooking. Professional use oils from restaurants or businesses are not eligible for this initiative. The collection hours are set between 9 AM and 6 PM, and residents are encouraged to check with their local stations for specific guidelines and eligibility.

Role of Partner Companies

Cosmo Oil takes the lead role in manufacturing the SAF and ensuring its transport to various airline companies, establishing a stable supply system. Cosmo Oil Marketing handles the overall operation of the service stations and the citizen collections. Meanwhile, JGC Holdings is responsible for developing the complete supply chain for SAF production, while Revo International will collect the used oil and deliver it to SAF production facilities, including Japan's first large-scale SAF plant operated by SAFFAIRE SKY ENERGY in Sakai City, Osaka.

The collected cooking oil will be transported to this facility, where it will be converted into SAF. This production is not only a step towards reducing waste but also an important contribution to the aviation industry's shift towards carbon neutrality and sustainable practices.

A Sustainable Future

Through its contributions, the Cosmo Energy Group, in partnership with JGC Holdings and Revo International, aims to accelerate the development of a robust SAF supply chain. This initiative is in line with Japan's broader objectives for carbon neutrality and resource recycling, which are critical in today’s ecological landscape.

Understanding the journey from collection to usage can illustrate how this project transforms waste into clean fuel. Residents use the oil in their kitchens, store it in secure containers, and deliver it to the service station's collection box. From there, Revo International collects the oil and takes it to the SAF production facility. The cooking oil is then processed and becomes aviation fuel, contributing to the aviation sector's sustainable practices.

As part of this initiative, a commitment to raising awareness about the importance of recycling cooking oil within communities will be paramount. The extensive cooperation among these companies showcases the collective dedication to promoting environmental sustainability and resource efficiency in Japan.

For more detailed information regarding the collection points and operational guidelines, please visit the official resource here.

The Cosmo Energy Group’s efforts signal a proactive approach to tackling environmental issues while also fostering community involvement in promoting a greener future.