#Japan #Tokyo #Earth Corporation #MA-T Technology #Athlete Hygiene

Earth Corporation's New Hygiene Initiative for Athletes Using MA-T Technology

In a groundbreaking initiative, Earth Corporation, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has announced a collaboration with Professor Keiichi Suzuki from Kokushikan University and McCain Advisory, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, to implement a hygiene project aimed at athletes. Utilizing the innovative oxidation control technology, MA-T®, this initiative focuses on combating skin infections and odor issues, particularly in martial arts clubs at Kokushikan University.

The project marks the beginning of efforts to ensure that athletes can dedicate themselves fully to their sport without concerns over hygiene. Insights gained from this initiative are expected to be extended to various sports disciplines, university athletics, junior high and high school activities, and local youth clubs. Earth Corporation is committed to fostering a future where every athlete can train with confidence, free from hygiene-related anxieties.

Reducing Four Years of Accumulated Odors

A pilot model has already demonstrated the efficacy of this initiative. The project involved treating kendo equipment, specifically the ‘kote’ gloves, which had been used for four years, with MA-T® solution. This intervention successfully reduced sweat odors caused by Micrococcus bacteria and smells associated with dampness stemming from Moraxella bacteria. Notably, it eliminated long-standing odors, showing promising results in managing common hygiene issues faced by athletes.

Psychological Impact on Athletes

The odor from the ‘kote’ had been a source of significant psychological stress for students who were self-conscious during commutes and in the classroom. Participants in the pilot program expressed astonishment at the disappearance of a scent they had long since accepted. Testimonials from students highlighted the newfound freedom to transition from practice without the burden of unwanted smells, significantly enhancing their overall experience in both sports and student life.

A Comprehensive Model for Hygiene Management

The fundamental approach of this project is built on a triad model of hygiene management that encompasses individuals, facilities, and equipment. This multidimensional strategy ensures that a robust hygiene system is in place to support athletes comprehensively.

1. Individuals: Encouraging thorough hand and body washing after practice, fostering habits of cleanliness among athletes.
2. Facilities: Maintaining strict control over environments like dojos, locker rooms, and rest areas that are prone to bacterial proliferation.
3. Equipment: Implementing cleanings methods using safe, high-performance MA-T® solutions for kendo gear and uniforms that are challenging to wash.

Insights from Professor Keiichi Suzuki

Professor Keiichi Suzuki of Kokushikan University emphasizes that martial arts like judo, kendo, karate, and wrestling are arenas where athletes constantly battle “invisible enemies.” The physical contact, daily scrapes, and humid environments can lead to both skin infections and strong odors, posing serious risks beyond mere discomfort.

He warns that the spread of infections can hinder athletes from participating in practice or competitions, resulting in significant barriers to their sports careers. This project aims to address the long-standing issue of hygiene management deficiencies that lead to lost opportunities in sports, leveraging scientific advancements to provide solutions.

About MA-T® Technology

MA-T® (Matching Transformation System®) is Japan's first oxidation control technology that generates stable aqueous radicals in precise amounts when needed. It is renowned for its high-level disinfection and deodorization capabilities, paired with excellent safety, and has found applications across various sectors, including medical, dental, nursing, pet care, food hygiene, hospitality, and air travel. To promote the social implementation of MA-T® technology, the Japan MA-T Industrial Association was established in November 2020, focusing on quality assurance and appropriate use policies while encouraging collaborative research and trials across industries and preparing frameworks for international standards.

Earth Corporation's commitment to implementing MA-T® has been acknowledged with prestigious awards, such as the Prime Minister's Award at the Cabinet Office's Japan Open Innovation Award and the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award at the Japan Resilience Award.

In this significant initiative, Earth Corporation is paving the way for a future where athletes can pursue their passions unhindered by hygiene challenges.