Japan
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World first: Japan’s dirty diaper recycling breakthrough to turn 2.6M ton problem into circular gold
A special ozone treatment sterilizes, bleaches, and deodorizes the material, enabling pulp to be reborn as new diapers, a feat previously considered impossible.
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Lummus, Sumitomo Chemical launch commercial PMMA chemical recycling technology
The technology recycles end‑of‑life PMMA back into high‑purity methyl methacrylate (MMA) monome.
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Canon expands print solutions with launch of LG-P800 full-color label printer
As of early 2026, the company’s market capitalization stands at approximately US$26.0bn, reflecting its position as one of the world’s sizeable tech hardware firms.
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Japan urged to shift packaging policy focus from disposal to circular design
Stronger policy incentives are needed for packaging waste prevention, reuse, and higher material circulation in Japan.
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Avantium’s plant-based PEF plastic secures approval in Japan’s PET bottle network
Releaf can be processed safely in the existing PET stream at levels of up to 10% by weight.
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Kewpie adopts Oji’s paper sachets for JAL in-flight meals
The sachets, though primarily composed of paper, offer excellent barrier properties against oxygen and water vapor.
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Japanese chemical giants merge plastics units to tackle market challenges
Mitsui Chemicals, Idemitsu Kosan and Sumitomo Chemical will merge parts of their plastics units to strengthen resilience in a struggling industry.
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Nippon Paper Industries chooses ANDRITZ to supply high-efficiency recovery boiler in Japan
The broiler will enable shutdown of one coal-fired boiler, significantly reducing carbon footprint.
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Japan tightens rules on food-contact packaging with new positive list system
Mandatory total migration testing for synthetic packaging materials without individual specifications will begin in June 2026.
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Eneos Corporation partners MCC to introduce new plastic-to-oil recycling facility
By pioneering advanced recycling, Eneos and MCC are setting a global standard for sustainable plastic management.