Resource Circulation and Waste Reduction

■ Waste Volume Trends

Actual amount of waste

The amount of waste varies depending on changes in production volume. We have set annual targets for waste volume and strive to achieve our medium-term target [3,000 tons by FY2024, equivalent to 75% of the actual value of 4,001 tons (including 923 tons of waste sold) in FY2018]. Though the amount of waste was 2,868 tons (including 506 tons of waste sold) in FY2019, it increased afterward due to increased production. Efforts are still underway to significantly reduce waste.

Reuse/recycling rate

Regarding the waste reuse/recycling rate, we quickly achieved our medium-term target (80% by FY2024) in terms of figures, including recycling by means of heat recovery (use of thermal energy generated by incineration, etc.). However, to improve the reuse/recycling rate by means other than heat recovery, it is necessary to review the materials used and thoroughly sort them (with increased personnel costs). This is an issue that we must address in the future.

■ Plastic Waste Reduction

The Act on Promotion of Resource Circulation for Plastics was enacted in April 2022 with the aim of controlling plastic waste, using resources effectively, and resolving the issues of global warming, marine plastic waste, and other issues. The SHIONOGI Group accelerates the resource recycling of plastics, which are indispensable materials in modern society, to promote the transition to a reuse- and recycling-oriented society.

In addition to modifying container and packaging materials, reducing the volume of containers and packaging (“reduce”), and adopting high-quality recycled plastics (“reuse/recycling”), we promote a switch to biomass plastics with less environmental impact while considering product quality and stable supply. We also work to recycle the waste materials that have been generated in the manufacturing process and to circulate resources without creating waste.