#Japan #Tokyo #circular economy #recycling #Yuni

Yuni Recognized for Its Role in the Circular Economy

Yuni, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has been highlighted in the Kanto Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry's publication showcasing exemplary case studies in circular economy initiatives among local governments and companies. The initiative aims to promote the circular economy within the Kanto region, which encompasses prefectures such as Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Niigata, Yamanashi, Nagano, and Shizuoka.

This case study compilation serves as a strategic document, categorizing advanced practices undertaken by local businesses and municipalities striving towards circular economic models. Yuni has been recognized as one of the three innovative companies committed to the active recovery, regeneration, and reuse of resources, amplifying its efforts to revolutionize the bedding recycling sector.

The Current Waste Situation in Japan

Japan generates approximately 40 million tons of municipal waste and around 370 million tons of industrial waste every year. Alarmingly, about 100 million bedding items are disposed of annually, with a mere 2% recycling rate, revealing the dire need for more effective recycling solutions.

Yuni's approach has been effectively featured as a forward-thinking model transitioning from incineration to regeneration, embodying the goal of transforming Japan from a waste-heavy nation to a resource-rich economy. These efforts include:

1. Launch of the Susteb Service

Yuni has developed a service known as Susteb for the collection and rematerialization of used bedding, which encompasses a wide range of materials such as cotton, down, urethane, and breathable products. Through Yuni's direct factory operations, those materials undergo breakdown and sorting, followed by washing and sterilization to produce high-quality recycled materials. These materials can be repurposed into new bedding, clothing, cushioning for vehicles, and construction materials.

2. Creation of a New Recycling Material Circulation Scheme

Yuni is not only focused on bedding but also collaborates with companies with new resource regeneration technologies, connecting resource emitters, recycling facilities, and product users. This hub plays a crucial role in recycling various materials like non-woven fabrics, leather, and automotive waste.

Yuni’s Milestones (September 2021 - August 2024)

Yuni's achievements are documented in the case study publication, with concrete figures highlighting the scale and effectiveness of their initiatives. The publication classifies contributors to the circular economy into five functional categories, with Yuni falling under "Companies Actively Engaged in Resource Collection, Regeneration, and Reuse."

Notable companies in the same category include Koyo Sangyo, a leader in PET bottle recycling, and Nakadai Holdings, a comprehensive recycling firm. Together, they represent significant achievements in the bedding recycling domain.

Recent Developments

Yuni has been actively involved in several initiatives, including:

• - Exhibition at the Osaka-Kansai Expo (September 16-22, 2025): Yuni showcased an innovative resource circulation system leveraging AI technology during this event hosted by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT).
• - Adoption in the Ministry of the Environment Model Project (July 2025): Getting picked for the Local Resource Recycling Acceleration Model Project demonstrates Yuni's commitment to build and demonstrate an AI resource circulation system that facilitates local material cycles.
• - Collaborative Experiments with Local Governments: Yuni has started pilot experiments in partnership with municipalities across Japan, focusing on recycling bedding materials and constructing regional resource circulation models.
• - Expanding Factory Operations: Yuni plans to spread its manufacturing reach through new facilities in Izumisano, Hyogo, and Yamanashi while continuously seeking partners.

Yuni is committed to working closely with local governments and businesses in the Kanto region and beyond. Companies facing challenges in establishing recycling routes or looking to utilize recycled materials are encouraged to reach out for consultation.

About Yuni

Founded in October 2019, Yuni aims to transition Japan from a waste-centric to a resource-focused society, promoting sustainable practices and innovative recycling technologies. Through its commitment to create a resource circulation model, Yuni continues to collaborate effectively with a variety of entities to shift towards a greener future.

For more information, visit the official website yuni.co.jp and the susteb service page at susteb.life.