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Tsuginohi Co., Ltd.: A Beacon of Circular Manufacturing in Okayama

Tsuginohi Co., Ltd., an environmental startup based in Okayama, has made headlines by being awarded the prestigious "Manufacturing, Commerce, and Service Subsidy" from the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry after just eight years of operation. This selection is notable as it highlights the company's innovative approach to circular manufacturing—transforming waste into value, which has resonated deeply with national interests.

Pioneering Circular Manufacturing from Okayama

In an era where the demand for rare metals is surging globally, the need for recycling precious materials like platinum and palladium from automotive catalysts and components is critical. Historically discarded automobile parts contain significant quantities of expensive metals. Tsuginohi aims to address this challenge by accurately measuring the platinum content in discarded components using advanced analytical devices. This technological infrastructure is essential for redefining waste as a resource, indicating a new “circular industry” model.

This initiative goes beyond simply installing equipment; it's about laying down the foundation to create an industry model that promotes sustainability and resource renewal in local settings.

Recognition Based on Principles and Structure

The project is focused not only on secondary resource development but also on promoting "regenerative manufacturing" that minimizes reliance on environmentally damaging resource extraction. By enhancing recycling efficiency, Tsuginohi expects to contribute to the reduction of CO₂ emissions and lower raw material procurement costs. Being recognized as a local small to medium enterprise (SME) reflects Tsuginohi's technological achievements and collaborative efforts within the community.

Through the subsidy, the company plans to enhance its recycling lines, automate analytical processes, and advance its manufacturing digital transformation step-by-step, marking a transformative transition in its operational capabilities.

CEO’s Vision and Commitment

Saima Kurokawa, the Chief Executive Officer, commented,

“We want to eliminate waste and promote a culture of circulation in manufacturing, starting from Okayama. This selection acknowledges our philosophy and operational framework rather than the technology itself. We aim to show that even a local company can contribute significantly to solving global environmental challenges.”

Future Developments

Looking ahead, Tsuginohi intends to collaborate with universities, local governments, and regional businesses to construct a model for implementing environmental and recycling technologies. This includes enhancing local waste recycling initiatives and developing new materials through joint research with academic institutions. Through these grassroots efforts, the company plans to foster evidence-based practices and societal integration.

Moreover, Tsuginohi aims to accelerate the establishment of a circular resource network both domestically and internationally. By circulating valuable waste such as automotive parts and batteries as “recycled resources,” it seeks to balance environmental sustainability with economic circulation.

Emphasizing its brand statement—"Circulate, Connect, and Benefit the Earth"—Tsuginohi aspires to expand from local endeavors into global initiatives, designing systems for a sustainable society.

About Tsuginohi Co., Ltd.

• - Company Name: Tsuginohi Co., Ltd.
• - Headquarters: 1448-1 Makabe, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture
• - Tokyo Office: 1-1-11 Kitashinagawa, 3F Koike Building, Shinagawa, Tokyo
• - CEO: Saima Kurokawa
• - Established: July 2, 2018
• - Business Activities: Recycling of automotive parts & development of environmental technologies
• - Brand Statement: “Circulate, Connect, and Benefit the Earth”
• - Website: https://tsuginohi.com/