#Japan #Lithium-ion #IoT Technology #Chiba City

Chiba City Innovates Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling with IoT

In a groundbreaking initiative, Chiba City, along with Re-tem Co., Ltd. and Sato Holdings Co., Ltd., is set to launch a new recycling project for lithium-ion batteries and other small rechargeable batteries. This program, commencing on March 10, 2026, aims to address the pressing need for effective and safe recycling practices through the utilization of Internet of Things (IoT) technology.

Background of the Initiative

With the increasing popularity of mobile batteries and compact electronic devices, the disposal of small rechargeable batteries has also surged. Unfortunately, there is a significant lack of awareness regarding proper disposal methods, leading to instances where these batteries end up mixed with general waste. This negligence has resulted in fire incidents during garbage collection and processing, highlighting a critical societal issue.

Moreover, small rechargeable batteries contain valuable metals like rare earth elements, making their proper collection and recycling increasingly vital. Compounding the urgency, the revised Resource Utilization Promotion Act is expected to take effect in April 2026, mandating manufacturers and sellers of mobile batteries and smartphones to responsibly collect and recycle their products. This regulatory enhancement necessitates that local governments establish solid collection systems to ensure safe and efficient recycling from households.

Project Overview

In response to these challenges, Chiba City, Re-tem, Sato, and Art Factory Gen entered into a collaborative agreement earlier this year to promote the collection of small rechargeable batteries and used small electronic devices through the use of IoT technologies. Together, these entities will construct an efficient and convenient recycling system beneficial for citizens, thus promoting a circular resource society.

As part of this initiative, eight new collection boxes for small rechargeable batteries will be installed throughout Chiba City, specifically designed to facilitate the retrieval and recycling of lithium-ion batteries. Equipped with temperature and distance sensors, these boxes will allow for real-time monitoring of collection status, enhancing operational efficiency.

Collection Schedule and Locations

The collection of small rechargeable batteries will commence on March 10, 2026, at the following locations:

• - Chiba City Hall Main Building
• - Central City Hall
• - Hanamigawa Ward Office
• - Inage Ward Office
• - Wakaba Ward Office
• - Midori Ward Office
• - Mihama Ward Office
• - Aeon Marine Pia Store (3-13-1 Takasu, Mihama Ward, Chiba City)

Collection will adhere to the operating hours of the respective facilities.

Roles of the Companies Involved

• - Chiba City: Responsible for the establishment and operation of collection points and public awareness efforts.
• - Re-tem: Focused on the appropriate processing and recycling of collected small rechargeable batteries and electronics.
• - Sato: Providing technical support for sensor implementation and data utilization through automatic identification technology.
• - Art Factory Gen: Overseeing the comprehensive production of durable lithium-ion battery collection boxes, including optimal structural design.

Future Prospects

Through this initiative, the aim is to enhance safety and improve resource recycling processes. Moreover, it is envisaged as a model case for collaboration between the public and private sectors, extending its impact to other municipalities and businesses. The involved companies are committed to leveraging their technologies and expertise to contribute to the realization of a sustainable circular society.

About Re-tem Co., Ltd.

Re-tem is an environmental solutions company founded in 1909, dedicated to achieving resource recycling systems through technological and managerial strength. They manage the entire process from waste collection, transportation, and intermediate treatment to recycling to support the establishment of a sustainable society.

Location: 3-6-10 Sotokanda, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
CEO: Sachiyo Nakajima
Website: Re-tem

About Sato Holdings Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1940, Sato leverages automatic identification technologies to capitalize on the power of information in optimizing social processes. Active in over 90 countries and regions, the company focuses on creating solutions for diverse organizational challenges through comprehensive automatic identification systems.

Location: 3-1-1 Shibaura, Minato Ward, Tokyo
CEO: Hiroyuki Okuma
Website: Sato Global