#Japan #Tokyo #YKK AP #Tokyo Building #Re・AL

Advancing Carbon Neutrality with 100% Recycled Aluminum

In a groundbreaking development within the construction sector, YKK AP, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is making waves with its innovative building material known as 'Re・AL'. This aluminum product boasts an impressive 100% recycling rate and has recently been adopted for the first time in the new rental apartment project, referred to as the (tentative) Minami-Senju 1-chome Project, spearheaded by Tokyo Building Company, also based in Tokyo.

On August 27, the delivery of 'Re・AL' aluminum materials began across the construction site, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward a carbon-neutral future. By exclusively utilizing recycled aluminum, this initiative actively contributes to the reduction of CO₂ emissions associated with construction, particularly the embodied carbon inherent in building materials.

Background of Adoption

With the global shift toward carbon neutrality gaining momentum, the construction industry has recognized the urgent need to address CO₂ emissions not only during a building's operational phase (operational carbon) but throughout its entire lifecycle—from manufacturing to disposal. YKK AP is committed to enhancing the ratio of recycled aluminum used in its products and plans to launch 'Re・AL' with a 100% recycling rate beginning in October 2025. Compared to conventional aluminum products that utilize new primary materials, 'Re・AL' offers a remarkable 73% reduction in CO₂ emissions across its life cycle.

This collaboration with Tokyo Building Company stems from their mutual commitment to promoting a carbon-neutral and circular economy. By incorporating 'Re・AL', they aim to ensure both a sustainable environmental impact and the creation of high-quality living spaces. Specifically, the project involves delivering approximately 160 sets of the 'BGE 31' series fire-resistant windows made from 'Re・AL'. This will contribute to a substantial reduction of around 10 tons of CO₂ emissions, achieving a 70% reduction in comparison to existing products offered by YKK AP.

Overview of 'Re・AL'

'Re・AL' is crafted from a combination of in-house production waste (internal return materials) and meticulously sorted recycled aluminum inputs that have been stripped of foreign materials and differing alloy components. It features an unmatched 100% recycling rate and is used for creating windows and curtain walls. It carries a third-party verified environmental product declaration known as 'SuMPO EPD', ensuring its quality and functionality are equivalent to that of traditional aluminum produced from new materials, while achieving an impressive 85% reduction in CO₂ emissions.

By utilizing 'Re・AL', clients can transparently demonstrate the environmental footprint of their construction materials, effectively enhancing the overall environmental value of their buildings while also reducing CO₂ emissions during manufacturing processes. More information about 'Re・AL' can be found here.

Project Details

• - Project Name: (tentative) Minami-Senju 1-chome Project
• - Expected Completion: August 2027
• - Client: Tokyo Building Company
• - Structure and Scale: Reinforced Concrete (RC) construction, 14 stories high
• - Usage: New rental apartment complex

This initiative marks a significant step toward sustainable construction practices and showcases the growing importance of recycling in building material innovation.