Starting September 1, the resort hotel Kyuukamura Norikura Kogen in Matsumoto City, Nagano, has begun recycling used paper cups. In collaboration with Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd., the initiative aims to contribute to a circular society.
Technology Established for Separating Plastic and Paper from Paper Cups to Extract Recycled Paper Fibers
At Kyuukamura Norikura Kogen, paper cups have been used for cold water service in the lobby and changing rooms, but their disposability has been a challenge. Since paper cups are made of composite materials with plastic adhered to the paper, they have been difficult to recycle through conventional methods. They were classified as a prohibited item in paper recycling centers and were incinerated as general waste.
To address this issue, Nippon Paper Industries has utilized its long-developed recycling technology to establish a method for separating the plastic and paper adhered to the surface of paper cups and extracting recycled paper fibers. This technology has made it possible to recycle the paper cups used at Kyuukamura Norikura Kogen.
In introducing the recycling system, both companies have worked closely with local governments to ensure proper sorting and collection of paper cups. By using a system developed by Nippon Paper Trading Co., Ltd., a group company of Nippon Paper Industries, that allows for small-lot collection, the recycling of paper cups has been made feasible.
Kyuukamura Norikura Kogen and Nippon Paper Industries are looking to further advance the recycling of paper cups and are considering future upcycling projects, such as creating eco-bags. They aim to contribute to reducing CO2 emissions through effective resource utilization.
Kyuukamura Norikura Kogen is a resort hotel located within Chubu Sangaku National Park. Positioned at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters, it offers enjoyment of seasonal nature and attracts many tourists year-round. The resort will continue its efforts toward achieving a sustainable society while harmonizing with the local natural environment.
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