#Japan #circular economy #Hitachi #Tomakomai #Hokkaido Eco

Hokkaido Eco Recycling Systems Partners with Hitachi for a Revolutionary CE×CN Business Model

Hokkaido Eco Recycling Systems (HERS) is taking a significant step towards a sustainable future by offering innovative solutions in collaboration with Hitachi. Together, they aim to establish an advanced business model known as 'CE×CN', which simultaneously promotes a circular economy (CE) and carbon neutrality (CN). This partnership challenges the conventional belief that achieving CE and CN often comes at a cost, particularly concerning energy consumption in recycling processes.

Since its inception in 1999, HERS has focused on manufacturing circularity through the recycling of discarded appliances, computers, and other equipment, recovering valuable resources such as ferrous and non-ferrous metals and plastics. Their efforts have not only contributed to the reduction of the need for new resource extraction but have also helped minimize waste disposal. With increasing concerns about global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, HERS is poised to transition its energy consumption in the recycling process to renewable energy sources.

Starting in November 2024, HERS plans to procure 100% renewable energy through a power trading platform, alongside the installation of solar panels on the rooftops of their warehouse buildings in Tomakomai City, Hokkaido, expected to be operational by October 2025. This initiative could potentially result in a substantial annual reduction of approximately 800 tons of CO₂ emissions, showcasing HERS's commitment to combating climate change.

Hitachi will oversee the design and construction of the necessary facilities and systems for this project, leveraging its extensive expertise in operational technology (OT) along with various technological innovations aimed at integrating CN into existing processes. HERS also intends to continually enhance its recycling technologies and improve the functionality of its equipment, optimizing resource circulation and further facilitating both CE and CN goals.

In recognizing the significance of this endeavor, Hitachi plans to utilize the 'CE×CN' model as a prototype for other recycling enterprises across Japan. Their initiative seeks to promote sustainable resource utilization, enhance resource efficiency, and support the transition towards carbon-neutral recycling processes. Moreover, Hitachi aims to extend its capabilities in various sectors such as manufacturing and distribution by offering solutions that contribute to CN, utilizing its strengths in product development, OT, and information technology (IT).

Hitachi's comprehensive digital solutions, referred to as Lumada, focus on transforming customer data into actionable insights, thus accelerating digital innovation and paving the way for a harmonious society where environmental sustainability, happiness, and economic growth coexist.

Hokkaido Eco Recycling Systems Overview

Hokkaido Eco Recycling Systems, a joint venture between Hitachi Ltd. and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation, began operations as a designated recycling facility under Japan's Home Appliance Recycling Law. The company was established to contribute to the construction of a resource-circulating society, adhering to the principles of the 'Eco Land Hokkaido 21 Plan' promoted by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

About Hitachi Ltd.

Hitachi is dedicated to realizing a harmonized society that balances environmental stewardship, happiness, and economic growth through its Social Innovation Business (SIB). With a strategic focus on developing a global presence across various sectors, including digital systems and services, energy, mobility, and connected industries, Hitachi is committed to solving societal challenges by leveraging data to create value.

For more details about Hokkaido Eco Recycling Systems, please visit their website. For inquiries related to Hitachi, visit Hitachi's official page.