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Japan aims to increase the utilisation of recycled plastics in the automotive sector twofold by 2030, responding to newly established European regulations and anticipated demands in various export markets, the World Economic Forum reported.
In November, Japan launched the inaugural Industry-Government-Academia Consortium, aimed at fostering a market for recycled plastics specifically within the automotive sector. This initiative brings together ten organisations from diverse fields, including waste management, recycled materials production, and the automotive industry. The Consortium focuses on investigating supply chain challenges and emphasises the necessity of collaborative efforts to advance the adoption of recycled plastics in automotive applications.
A report from the consortium reveals that the automotive sector will require 250,000 tonnes of recycled plastic annually to comply with European regulations. Out of this total, it is anticipated that around 63,000 tonnes will be sourced from decommissioned vehicles, with the remaining 187,000 tonnes obtained from alternative sources.
The consortium intends to strengthen cooperation between the automotive and processing industries by discussing procurement and costs to improve equity in the supply chain.
At present, major automotive companies like Toyota, Mazda, and Honda are incorporating recycled plastics into their vehicle production. Notably, in 2011, Mazda pioneered the recycling of bumper waste by transforming it into new bumpers, a practice they maintain successfully. In 2023, Mazda revamped an impressive 43,889 bumpers using this innovative approach.
Car manufacturers like Honda and Toyota are advancing the quality standards of recycled plastics by working closely with material producers. Honda, in collaboration with Sumitomo Chemical, has introduced Noblen Meguri, a type of recycled polypropylene specifically designed for use in front grilles. Meanwhile, Toyota has produced prototype components made from recycled polypropylene that are compliant with commercial production guidelines.
Collaboration between government entities and industries to advocate for recycled plastics is essential. Although many nations are implementing strategies to minimise plastic waste, a unified approach remains elusive, as demonstrated by recent discussions held in South Korea. The World Economic Forum’s findings emphasise that addressing plastic pollution is not only crucial for environmental protection but also presents significant economic prospects, necessitating a shift towards sustainable development practices.
Japan’s collaborative efforts across various sectors to advance the use of recycled plastics in the automotive field could set a benchmark for global practices. This initiative highlights the effectiveness of a strong alliance between governmental bodies and industry leaders in fostering innovation, minimising plastic waste and addressing environmental challenges.