#Japan #Tokyo #Sustainable Building #ADI #Chiyoda Circular

Architect Developer Unveils the Future of Construction with 100% Recycled Gypsum Board

The architectural landscape is poised for a paradigm shift as Architect Developer, Inc. (ADI), headquartered in the bustling Ginza district of Tokyo, announces the integration of the world’s first completely recycled gypsum board, the Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board, into its upcoming rental apartment projects across Chiba and Kanagawa Prefectures. Set to commence construction in 2025, this groundbreaking initiative not only highlights the company’s dedication to environmental sustainability but also sets a precedent for the construction industry as a whole.

A Sustainable Revolution in Construction Materials

The Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board is a novel product manufactured entirely from waste gypsum boards. This innovative material is sourced from discarded construction materials and utilizes 100% renewable energy during its production process. The decision to employ this recyclable board stems from its impressive environmental performance, which enables ADI to substantially reduce CO₂ emissions and waste generation by about one-third when compared to traditional gypsum products.

Addressing Critical Environmental Challenges

As Japan faces increasing environmental concerns, the statistics surrounding gypsum board usage are staggering. Approximately 4 million tons of gypsum board are shipped annually within the country, and the waste generated during demolition and renovation is projected to rise significantly. According to estimates from the National Institute for Environmental Studies, the volume of waste gypsum board could reach levels comparable to production rates within mere decades, exacerbating issues related to disposal facility shortages and the rise of greenhouse gases.

Drawing attention to the current recycling rates, only about 10% of the raw materials used in gypsum board production is derived from recycled sources, with a remarkable discrepancy between construction-generated waste and that sourced from demolition. While up to 70% of gypsum board from new construction projects can be recycled, only a mere 6% of demolition-generated waste finds its way back into the resource stream. This stagnation in recycling processes is primarily attributed to the inadequacy of recycling facilities and the complexities involved in separate demolition procedures.

In light of these challenges, the introduction of the Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board, which achieves carbon neutrality through the complete recycling of gypsum, is positioning itself as a key solution for reducing both landfill waste and CO₂ emissions in the construction realm.

Key Features and Anticipated Impacts

• - 100% Recycled Gypsum Board: Maintains the same fire resistance, sound insulation, and workability as traditional products while achieving carbon-neutral manufacturing.
• - Environmentally Certified: The product holds certifications, including SuMPO EPD and Eco Mark, and is designed to meet LEED and CASBEE assessment criteria with the integration of green energy sources.
• - Award-Winning Design: Having received the Good Design Award for 2024, the product has been acknowledged for its aesthetics and functionality.
• - CO₂ Reduction: Based on ADI’s calculations, substituting standard gypsum boards with the Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board in a building of 557.79 square meters could lead to a CO₂ reduction of approximately 8.8 tons during construction phases.
• - Circular Resource Management: The lifecycle of the Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board is completed through collaboration with other entities to collect and recycle used gypsum boards, enhancing the sustainability of construction operations.

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Sustainability

In the upcoming phases, ADI plans to implement the Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board as a standard in all 30 newly developed rental units under the “LiVLi” brand in Chiba and Kanagawa, slated for construction between July 2025 and June 2026. Through the initial year of application, ADI aims to optimize construction and procurement processes while exploring the potential for environmentally-friendly building materials in other regions.

By practicing and expanding circular economy principles in the construction lifecycle—from demolition to new construction—ADI aspires to contribute significantly to establishing a more sustainable resource circulation model within the industry.

With a guiding principle of creating enriched living experiences from home, ADI is committed to fostering a brighter future and innovating optimal solutions in real estate management for people’s lives.

For further information about ADI and their sustainability programs, visit adi.jp.