Press release
- TBM
TBM and Kyotango City Conclude a Comprehensive Partnership Agreement Contributing to Sustainable Community Development and SDGs
~ Aiming to create a model for Decarbonization, plastic material circulation society ~
TBM Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Nobuyoshi Yamasaki, hereinafter referred to as TBM) is working with Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture (Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture, Mayor: Yasushi Nakayama, hereinafter referred to as Kyotango City) to reduce environmental impact in the future. We aim to create a model for a sustainable material circulation society through the promotion of mechanical recycling * that reduces waste. We are pleased to announce that Kyotango City has concluded a comprehensive partnership agreement with the aim of contributing to sustainable city development and SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) where the economy, society and environment thrive.
* mechanical recycling is the process of collecting used products and waste from production processes, processing them so that they are easy to use, and using them as materials or raw materials for new products.
Background
Companies and local governments are required to respond to environmental and social issues, such as the rapidly advancing marine plastic problem and contributions to the SDGs. Around the world, mechanical recycling is being emphasized from the perspective of material circulation. In addition, the international treaty "Basel Convention", which defines the definition of hazardous wastes and stipulates imports and exports, has increased the need for material circulation through domestic recycling. The goal of eliminating single-use plastic packaging in the region and reusing or recycling all materials has accelerated the switch to repeatedly recyclable materials. In Japan, the “Plastic material circulation Strategy” was announced based on the Basic Law for Establishing a Recycling-Based Society, with the milestone of doubling the recycling of plastics by 2030 and effectively utilizing 100% of used plastics by 2035. As a result, a new material circulation model is born by forming partnerships with local governments, companies, universities, etc.
Overview
TBM launched a new brand, "CirculeX," in July 2020, which repurposes used plastic products and LIMEX products, which are primarily made from limestone. In response to the growing global need for recycled material and plastic alternative, TBM aims to develop a wide range of products, including CirculeX garbage bags, using CirculeX as a material to promote material circulation. By collaborating with partners involved in the collection, transportation, sorting, and commercialization of used plastics, the raw material for CirculeX, TBM aims to contribute to the realization of a circular economy.
In addition, the "CirculeX app" service, which promotes the collection of used plastic and LIMEX products, was launched in January 2021. Consumers can exchange their waste at collection points through the app for "CirculeX points," which can be used as donations to the e-commerce site "ZAIMA" operated by TBM or to social contribution organizations.
Kyotango City, located on the Tango Peninsula in northern Kyoto Prefecture, has formulated the "Second Kyotango City Environmental Basic Plan" to protect its rich and beautiful natural environment. This plan sets out the basic direction for fostering awareness of accepting and adapting to changes in the natural and living environment, and for realizing a civil society that solves issues in the fields of environment, society, and economy in an integrated manner.
The purpose of this agreement is to utilize TBM's knowledge and technology to socially implement the model of a sustainable material circulation society that Kyotango City is aiming for, and the two parties will exchange information and hold discussions, and will work together and cooperate on the matters listed below.
(1) Matters concerning the circulation and recycling of plastic resources
(2) Promoting the spread of biomass products and fostering Decarbonization lifestyle
(3) Business matching, new business creation, and business location
(4) Cooperation with SDGs Future City Participating Organizations
(5) Any other matters that Kyotango City and TBM deem necessary to achieve the objectives of this Agreement.