Accelerating resource circulation (3R) and decarbonisation at construction sites using a digital platform

Members and Their Roles

- Takasago Thermal Engineering Co., Ltd.:As a leading HVAC contractor in the construction industry, it handles and sorts plastic waste generated during operations.  

- DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.:As an air-conditioning equipment manufacturer, it develops and explores concepts for recycled products.  

- Veolia jenets K.K. (Veolia Japan GK):As a recycling specialist, it shreds and pelletizes waste plastics.  

- Gifu Plastic Industry Co., Ltd.:As a reprocessing manufacturer, it molds products from recycled resin.  

- digglue Inc.:Responsible for research and analysis, as well as the development and provision of a digital platform.

Project Start Date

- October 2022

Technologies, Business Model, Achievements, and Goals

“Promoting Resource Circulation (3R) and Decarbonization at Construction Sites by Leveraging a Digital Platform” is an initiative launched by Takasago Thermal Engineering, Daikin Industries, Gifu Plastic Industry, Veolia Genets (Veolia Japan), digglue, and other partners across both supply and waste management sectors, aiming to reduce plastic waste. (This project was selected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government under its ‘Innovative Technology & Business Promotion Project.’)

Currently, most waste plastics generated at construction sites are not adequately sorted or recycled, resulting in disposal via landfills or thermal recycling (heat recovery).

The project initially employs IoT-based scales to assess current levels of plastic waste and establish optimal sorting methods for effective recycling (classifying plastics into five categories by material). To facilitate true recycling, the initiative also educates on-site personnel regarding proper sorting techniques, introduces volume-reduction equipment, and explores partnerships with recycling firms. Additionally, the project is developing new reusable packaging for air-conditioning units that combines environmental consideration with practicality and durability.

To further streamline and expand plastic recycling and remanufacturing, the project is creating a digital platform — MateRe-Visualization — that automatically collects and visualizes data on waste generation and CO₂ reductions. By integrating real-world operations with digital solutions, this initiative aims to become a pioneering model for collaboration across both supply and waste management sectors.

Reference URL

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Environment

FY2023 Innovative Technology & Business Promotion (Demonstration Project)

Project Report

https://www.kankyo.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/documents/d/kankyo/-_-_240522_-