#Japan #Tokyo #Ltd. #GX Project #RE Co. #Biofuel Initiative

RE Co., Ltd. Embraces Green Transformation with New Project

RE Co., Ltd., headquartered in Toshima, Tokyo and led by Naoki Imai, has recently been selected for Tokyo's "Early Implementation Support Project for the Creation of GX-Related Industries." This initiative aims to promote the recycling of underused resources, specifically focusing on the repurposing of wastewater sludge from business sources into biofuels.

The Importance of Renewable Energy Transition

In recent years, both the potential of renewable fuels and the importance of energy self-sufficiency have gained significant attention. In various sectors such as aviation, shipping, and construction, industries face urgent challenges to secure alternative fuels that can replace fossil fuels, thereby achieving carbon neutrality.

Currently, the wastewater sludge generated daily by restaurants and food facilities in urban areas has been categorized as an environmental nuisance, adversely affecting hygiene and sanitation infrastructure. Instead of being utilized as valuable energy, this sludge has largely remained an underutilized resource in Japan.

Challenging Established Norms

RE Co., Ltd. has historically engaged with multiple social issues by leveraging big data analytics to address complexities in supply chain optimization and food waste reduction. With this new project, the company aims to redefine wastewater sludge as a valuable resource in Tokyo. By integrating the collection process with treatment and biofuel production, the initiative creates a comprehensive system designed for urban energy circulation. Moreover, collaborating with existing pipe cleaning and oil recovery networks will help reduce additional costs and burdens for the city.

This project is geared towards developing a "food and energy circulation model" in the massive consumption hub of Tokyo. By partnering with local governments, businesses, and residents, the aim is to solidify a foundation for a decarbonized and resource-autonomous society.

Features and Timeline of the Project

The initiative seeks to establish an urban-based local production for local consumption energy model by collecting and refining previously discarded wastewater sludge for use as a versatile renewable fuel (FAME). Specific strategies involve working with local pipe cleaning and oil recovery companies to establish an efficient sludge collection scheme utilizing existing infrastructure. During the refinement process, renewable fatty substances will be extracted from the sludge to facilitate its application across maritime, construction, and rail sectors. Additionally, the by-product glycerol will be considered for use in cleaning products and soaps to minimize resource waste, aiming for a “fully circular” project.

The project is slated to unfold over five years, with initial steps designed to focus on social implementation. From 2025 to 2027, characteristics of the wastewater sludge will be analyzed, and small-scale demonstrations will be conducted for refinement and product development in preparation for test supplies to potential clients. After 2028, the project will consider mass production and technological expansion into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to establish a sustainable energy circulation model in urban settings.

Insights from RE Co., Ltd.'s Leadership

In a statement, Naoki Imai, the representative of RE Co., Ltd. remarked, “We are honored to be selected for Tokyo's GX-related industry support project. Our previous work focused on solving challenges rooted in food distribution, but this endeavor allows us to apply that knowledge in the field of energy and to tap into urban underutilized resources for creating a circular energy system. We believe that overlooked resources like wastewater sludge contain potential solutions for regional challenges and carbon reduction. Kicking off this demonstration in Tokyo is a critical first step to expanding local production and consumption energy models. We are committed to working alongside relevant parties to achieve results that lead towards practical implementation.”

Company Overview

• - Company Name: RE Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: Naoki Imai (CEO) and Akito Ojima (Co-CEO)
• - Established: April 2016
• - Headquarters: Sumida 1-9-1, Grand Toho Building, Toshima, Tokyo
• - Business Activities: Consulting, Producing, Matching, Big Data Utilization, Generative AI, Small Business Support, and Creative Services
• - Website: RE Co., Ltd.