Japan advances resource circulation through waste-to-fertilizer projects

Regional initiatives in Japan are advancing resource circulation models by converting waste into agricultural fertilizer.

In Kagoshima, a collaborative project involving industry, government, academia, and farmers is developing specialized fertilizers. By combining sewage sludge with shochu distillery byproducts (shochu-kasu), rice bran, and bamboo sawdust, researchers have created targeted fertilizers for tea and sweet potato cultivation. This method utilizes conditional anaerobic fermentation to prevent nitrogen loss and reduce odors, providing a cost-effective alternative to expensive commercial fertilizers.

In Mishima, Shizuoka, a municipal project focuses on reducing household food waste, which accounts for approximately 40% of local waste. The city provides residents with stylish, tote-bag-style composters to turn food scraps into soil. This initiative aims to reduce CO2 emissions from waste incineration and lower disposal costs. Excess compost is collected by the city and used by local farmers, creating a localized cycle of food production and waste management.