#Japan #Osaka #circular economy #Toyo Seikan Group #Tokan Koigyo

Circular Economy Showcase at Osaka Expo 2025

From September 23 to 29, 2025, the Toyo Seikan Group Holdings and its subsidiary, Tokan Koigyo Co., will be participating in an engaging event hosted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. Located in the EXPO Messe indoor exhibition hall 'WASSE', the event titled 'Circular Economy Institute' will serve as an interactive space for visitors to learn about sustainable practices.

In collaboration with the popular 'Science Comic Survival' series published by Asahi Shimbun, the exhibition will focus on educating attendees about the principles of the circular economy. Central to this mission is the 'CUP to CUP PROJECT', an initiative aimed at transforming used cups into valuable resources. Visitors can expect to see demonstrations of the 'Re-CUP WASHER', a cup cleaning machine designed to encourage individual participation in sustainability efforts.

The 'CUP to CUP PROJECT'

The 'CUP to CUP PROJECT' aims to create a closed-loop system where paper cups are reused as primary raw materials for new cups. By washing used cups properly, we can convert what would typically be discarded into reusable materials. The Re-CUP WASHER allows consumers to play an active role in the recycling process, effectively turning waste into a resource through a simple act of cleaning.

Re-CUP WASHER

The Re-CUP WASHER not only demonstrates eco-conscious practices but also urges consumers to engage in sustainable actions. Traditionally, used cups clogged with food residue often end up as combustible waste. By enabling users to clean their cups, these machines facilitate the transition from waste to recycling. You can find more details about the Re-CUP WASHER here.

Recycled-Pulp Paper Cups

The exhibition will also include the innovative recycled-pulp paper cups, which represent a significant advancement in the recycling of used paper cups. Instead of being incinerated, these cups can be processed to remove food and liquid contaminants, allowing the extraction of recycled paper materials. This new process enables the production of paper cups incorporating recycled pulp as part of their raw material structure, thus closing the loop for paper cup manufacturing.

Further details can be found here.



Please note that the display items may change without notice.

About the 'Circular Economy Institute'

The Circular Economy Institute is an interactive event hosted by METI, designed to facilitate enjoyable learning experiences about the circular economy. Participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on activities and discussions, from making choices that support circular practices in everyday life to understanding how to sort and recycle products effectively.

The program includes educational areas where both children and adults can discover how their actions impact the circular economy and witness how products can re-enter the system.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Dates: September 23 (Tue) - September 29 (Mon), 2025
• - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Until 7:00 PM on September 29)
• - Location: EXPO Messe [WASSE] South Hall at Osaka-Kansai Expo
• - Exhibition Name: 'Learning About the Circular Economy with Science Comic Survival'
• - Hosted by: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
• - Collaborating Partner: Asahi Shimbun Publishers ('Science Comic Survival' series)
• - Featured Exhibits: Resource circulation of paper cups and the circular economy through displays like the Re-CUP WASHER and recycled-pulp paper cups.

About Tokan Koigyo

Founded in 1943, Tokan Koigyo has been a pioneer in producing various packaging containers made from paper and plastic. The company specializes in paper cups, catering to a wide array of customer needs while focusing on environmental sustainability. Its corporate philosophy emphasizes the balance between societal demands and natural preservation, pushing for innovation in packaging solutions that contribute to the quality of life.

You can learn more about Tokan Koigyo visiting their website.

About Toyo Seikan Group

As a comprehensive packaging container manufacturer, the Toyo Seikan Group provides a wide variety of containers using materials like metal, plastic, paper, and glass. Their initiatives include engineering, filling, logistics, and relevant business ventures. With a focus on maximizing stakeholder value while promoting a long-term vision for sustainability through 'Long-Term Management Vision 2050,' the group aims to create a society where diverse lifestyles can thrive without harming the earth.

Established in 1917, the group has about 19,000 employees and operates in numerous domestic and international companies. Learn more about their sustainability initiatives on their website.