Approach and policy toward a recycling-oriented society

In a society of mass production, mass consumption, and mass disposal, resources necessary for the production of all things are being depleted, and environmental destruction due to waste continues unabated. To break free from such a social structure, our Group will continue to make various efforts to reduce resource consumption through efficient and recycling use of limited resources and contribute to the formation of a recycling-oriented society that enhances the sustainability of society.

Initiatives for Waste Reduction

The manufacturing process of our Group generates waste materials such as waste paste, waste liquid, products that are not suitable for sale, and scraps cut off when shipping final products. We are working to increase efficiency in the use of raw materials and supplies by optimizing production plans, while strengthening monitoring of the manufacturing process to minimize the generation of nonconforming products for sale.
 The scrap ratio* for FY2022 was 3.46%, worse than the previous year’s results, failing to achieve the target of 3% or less. This was due to an increase in nonconforming products for sale resulting from a temporary quality problem. All Group companies worked together to address the problem and have taken measures to prevent similar problems from occurring in the future, so we aim to achieve the target in the next fiscal year and beyond.

*Scrap ratio: Ratio of the total of products unsuitable for sale generated during the process from manufacturing to sales and products returned by customers to production volume

Our Group’s products are characterized by their durability that can withstand long-term use, which also contributes to reductions in waste after they become final products.

Waste disposal

Waste generated is disposed of by contractors selected for each type of waste based on the criteria ensuring that waste will be properly disposed of so as not to adversely affect the surrounding environment and that all relevant laws and regulations will be strictly observed. Contracts with waste disposal contractors are reviewed as necessary to ensure more appropriate and efficient waste disposal.

“Volar Bio,” a product that utilizes plant-derived raw materials

In 2019, our Group launched Volar Bio, the first product to use plant-derived raw materials. Volar Bio has a unique structure consisting of multiple layers made from renewable plant-derived raw materials, embodying our commitment to reduce our dependence on limited resources. Polycarbonate polyurethane resin uses polyols synthesized from corn as one part of the resin material, and twill base fabric uses wood pulp as one part of the fiber. In contrast to fossil fuel-based ethanol, which emits greenhouse gases, corn-based ethanol actively removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Volar Bio was developed with functionality and sustainability in mind and has been certified by the BioPreferred Program as a product containing 29% bio-based materials. The BioPreferred Program is an initiative of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to promote the development of biomass products. It provides consumers with useful information on bio-based products, and operates a certification and labeling system for private companies.

Volar Bio was also awarded the 2020 PETA Vegan Homeware Award for being stylish and cruelty-free.

Development of renewable/recycled products

Our Group aims to have at least 50% of our products made from renewable/recycled materials by FY2030. In FY2022, 51% of our products for furniture, aircraft, RVs, and ships were made from renewable/recycled materials. We will continue to provide our customers with more environmentally friendly product options, and will focus our sales efforts on these products.

Reuse and Recycle Platform Brand “REDOW”

With the support of KAJIHARA DESIGN STUDIO, we have launched the upcycling brand “REDOW” and launched sales of bags, cushions, and other items made from products unsuitable for sale.
 In the future, we intend to evolve “REDOW” as a reuse and recycling platform, develop collaborative products with companies that agree with our aim to reduce waste, and explore secondary processing use and material recycling methods.