#Japan #Carbon Recycling #Yamagata #Sumitomo Heavy #Sakata City

Research Initiative on Carbon Recycling in Sakata and Shonai Area

Sumitomo Heavy Industries, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has been chosen to conduct an important survey as part of the NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization) project aimed at advancing inter-industry collaboration for carbon recycling technologies. This endeavor focuses specifically on the Sakata and Shonai regions of Yamagata Prefecture.

The project is conducted in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Yamagata Prefectural Government, Sakata City, Maeda Seikan Co., Ltd., and Toho Acetylene Co., Ltd., with additional support from Summit Sakata Power and Yamagata Bank as cooperating organizations. This collective effort seeks to lay the groundwork for a regional circular carbon recycling system in the area.

Purpose and Goals of the Research

The central intent of this survey is to explore methods of implementing carbon recycling in society by creating a decentralized inter-industry collaboration model, particularly one that focuses on small to medium-sized enterprises. By investigating the development of a CO2 supply chain tailored to the unique characteristics of each region, this project aims to establish practical applications for carbon recycling.

The Sakata and Shonai areas are particularly suitable for this research, given the multitude of CO2 emission sources such as biomass power plants, along with a diverse industrial base including port functions, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Detailed Investigative Actions

The survey will examine the emissions of CO2, referred to as Green CO2, from biomass power plants in the Sakata and Shonai areas. Key activities include:

• - Assessing the demand for CO2 utilization.
• - Exploring methods for the collection and provision of CO2.
• - Evaluating economic feasibility and the potential for added value.

These actions aim to create a roadmap for social implementation, integrating efforts from industry, government, and academia to form a robust Green CO2 cycle within the region.

Commitment to Carbon Neutrality

As a leading entity in the push for carbon neutrality, Sumitomo Heavy Industries has been involved in constructing and operating numerous biomass power plants both domestically and internationally. The company is also committed to promoting renewable energy sources and technologies for carbon capture and utilization (CCU).

In this survey, Sumitomo Heavy intends to leverage its extensive expertise while working closely with local stakeholders to address technical, policy, and business-related considerations necessary for achieving carbon neutrality.

Roles of Participating Companies

• - Sumitomo Heavy Industries: Acting as the representative enterprise, focusing on the examination of technology and business viability, overseeing the entire project.
• - Yamagata Prefecture and Sakata City: Facilitating regional and industry collaboration; utilizing CO2 in public works and other projects.
• - Maeda Seikan Co., Ltd.: Investigating CO2 fixation in concrete processes.
• - Toho Acetylene Co., Ltd.: Overseeing the distribution of liquefied CO2 gas.
• - Summit Sakata Power: Responsible for the collection of Green CO2.
• - Yamagata Bank: Engaging in regional and industrial collaboration.

Through these combined efforts, the initiative aims not only to advance environmental sustainability but also to set a blueprint for similar endeavors across other regions.

Conclusion

This collaborative project marks a vital step toward establishing an environmentally responsible framework for carbon recycling in Japan, while also promising economic benefits and advancements in local industry, ultimately supporting the nation's goals for carbon neutrality and sustainable development.