#Japan #Tokyo #Nissui Con #Lavender Project #Wastewater Award

Nissui Con Achieves National Recognition in Wastewater Management

Nissui Con, a company located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has recently been honored with the esteemed Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award, specifically the 'Circular Roadway Wastewater Award', for the fiscal year 2023 (the 18th awarding). This recognition celebrates initiatives that significantly contribute to sustainable water and resource cycles.

In a collaborative effort, Nissui Con partnered with Setagaya Junior and Senior High School from the Salesian International Academy, along with IAO and Satis Pharmaceutical, to receive this accolade for their project in the public relations and education category. This unique initiative, named the 'Lavender Project', seeks to educate and promote the potential of utilizing wastewater resources innovatively.

Understanding the Lavender Project

The Lavender Project emerged from the students' creative brainstorming, where they decided to leverage the resources derived from wastewater to produce cosmetics. The term 'junkaan sodachi' was coined to refer to the organic materials sourced from wastewater, particularly emphasizing the nutrients available in treated sludge material. These materials serve as a sustainable foundation for creating alternative agricultural products.

Key Initiatives of the Project:

1. Cultivation of Lavender using Fertilizer from Wastewater Sludge: The project utilized fertilizer made from treated sewage to cultivate lavender, showing a practical application of recycled resources in agriculture.
2. Analysis of the Lavender's Fragrant Components: Students and researchers conducted various analyses to assess the aromatic properties of the harvested lavender, which is essential for developing fragrances.
3. Development of Hand Cream Using Lavender Petals: With the harvested lavender, the team conceptualized and developed a hand cream, focusing on the effective use of the flower's petals, promoting the benefits of sustainable products.
4. Public Relations and Sale of the Hand Cream: The product was marketed to raise awareness and funds for future projects, with the aim of spreading the message of sustainability.


Image: Award Ceremony for the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award
As a part of the award process, Nissui Con participated in a ceremony where they were recognized for their contributions to promoting sustainable practices within the community. The company expressed its commitment to continuing its efforts in utilizing wastewater resources efficiently, with a vision for a more sustainable society.

Looking Ahead

Nissui Con aims to enhance its initiatives further, focusing on recycling and promoting education regarding the effective use of wastewater resources. By fostering community awareness and involvement, the company hopes to inspire other organizations in the field of sustainable resource management.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism continues to support projects that align with promoting environmental sustainability through innovative practices. The Lavender Project exemplifies the potential of young minds in contributing positively to society, emphasizing education, creativity, and responsibility in environmental stewardship.

For more details and resources regarding the Circular Roadway Wastewater Award and the Lavender Project, refer to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's press release and the Japan Sewerage Association’s guidelines.