Japan Hosts 8th Carbon Recycling Conference

Carbon recycling is the practice of reusing CO2 as a resource to produce fuels, chemicals, minerals, and other products. It can curb CO2 emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and is considered a key technology for achieving carbon neutrality as well as important for resource circulation and economic security.

The conference is held to confirm that countries are pursuing technology development, demonstrations, and other efforts toward social implementation, and to strengthen cooperation among them.

Through presentations by government officials and companies from Japan and abroad on policy developments, market formation, technology development, and demonstration and commercialization cases, the conference advanced the exchange of knowledge and understanding toward social implementation.

At the conference’s 8th edition, talks addressed (1) international developments surrounding carbon recycling and Japan’s initiatives, (2) advanced carbon recycling technologies that contribute to building CO2 value chains, and (3) industrial collaboration and market formation to accelerate social implementation. Special Professor Susumu Kitagawa of Kyoto University sent a video message for a special lecture about the development of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), for which the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded.

A side event brought together Japanese university students and overseas experts to contribute to developing the next generation of talent. A panel exhibition also introduced initiatives by Japanese industry, academia, and government, sharing Japan’s technologies and efforts with the world.

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and NEDO say they will continue accelerating efforts to strengthen international cooperation toward social implementation in Japan and abroad.