Smart Green Pack® for Cooking Oil

• J-OIL MILLS, INC.
• Toppan Inc.

Packaging material of cooking oil has been changed from conventional glass and plastic to paper. By adopting EP-PAK・GL, the shelf life of canola oil, rice bran oil, and sesame oil has been extended to two years from one, realizing a reduction in food loss compared to conventional laminated-containers and PET bottles. A double-opening spout has been added to allow users to pour the amount of oil as needed. Thanks to the embossed wave ruled lines and holding position guide added on the body for enhanced usability, it is easy to hold with one hand.

Laser-Scored Easy-Opening and Zipper-Resealable Pouch with filling Capability from the Top

• Suntory Wellness Ltd.
• Suntory Holdings Limited
• Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.

By providing a laser opening guidance line with a height difference on the front and back of the pouch, enough space to be pinched easily has been added to the opening area and openability has been enhanced. In addition, when filling from the zipper side, there was a risk of bag breakage during laser processing, but the laser opening guidance line has reduced this risk and the defect rate during filling.

HOUSE「Kari-ya Curry」Microwaveable Pouch

• Toyo Seikan Co., Ltd.
• House Foods Group Inc.

The conventional microwaveable pouches with the contents rich in salt or oil had a risk of holes being made from heat damage in certain microwaves, or risk of burn from heated contents when the pouch was difficult to open. This package uses PBT film and improved processing technology to prevent holes, enhance opening performance, and reduce the amount of plastic used without utilizing heat-resistant or easy-toopen films. By switching from boiling to microwave heating, the heating time has been greatly shortened, and CO₂ emissions during cooking can be reduced by around 80%.

Integrated Container (plastic and paper)

• ITOCHU PLASTICS INC.
• FamilyMart CO.,Ltd.
• Athena Kogyo Co., Ltd.

Designed with a paper sleeve attached to the outside of the plastic inner cup, the paper sleeve complements the strength of the entire container, reducing the amount of plastic usage. The package is designed without bottom paper, so the amount of paper used is also minimized.

An inner fitting lid, which is usually difficult to be applied for paper containers, can be attached to the inner plastic cup to avoid liquid leakage. the lid has perforated valves made by laser processing to prevent contamination from entering during distribution and allows steam inside to escape efficiently when microwaved.

Drip on the World Green: all-renewable Material Dripper

• AJINOMOTO AGF, INC
• OHKI Trading Company

This coffee dripper which is made from all-renewable material has been developed, aiming to achieve carbon offset. The existing dripper is made with polypropylene (PP) filter and PP/paper hanger parts. They contain petroleum-derived plastic. On the other hand, the new dripper is made from all-renewable materials with a polylactic acid (PLA) /pulp filter and PLA/paper hanger parts. The PLA filter has a different coffee extraction rate and may affect the coffee flavor compared to existing PP filters. The pulp fiber is added to the filter to adjust for the extraction rate. The packaging machine has been also adjusted, enabling production on the existing one.

Mayonnaise Bottle with Paper Label

• Kewpie Corporation
• Toppan Inc.

Addressing issues of environmental impact and animal welfare amid growing awareness of sustainability among customers, this product uses free-range eggs, and the exterior package applies paper instead of plastic. By placing the PET layer between the paper and the sealant, this compensates the weak physical properties of paper and achieves the strength to withstand physical impacts during distribution. The corners have been rounded to create a design that is gentle to the touch. Biomass ink is also partially used for printing.

Paper and Plastic Containers for Lawson's Ready-made Pasta Meals

• Mitsubishi Corporation Packaging Ltd.
• Lawson, Inc.

We use either environmentally friendly paper containers or high heat and oil resistant plastic containers for our series of ready-made pasta meals based on the varying contents. By standardizing the lid, we aim to reduce unnecessary waste, manage inventory levels, and improve delivery and work efficiency. The tone and design for both containers are standardized in order to familiarize the product line to consumers. The paper containers are skived to prevent oil and moisture leak, while also designed with convenience making it easy to separate tightly stacked containers with one hand.

"Shio Hitofuri", one-shake ("Hitofuri") salt

• The Salt Industry Center of Japan
• YOSHINO KOGYOSHO CO., LTD.

We have developed "Shio Hitofuri", one-shake ("Hitofuri") salt bottle that can shake out a small amount of salt (approximately 0.3g) with just one shake, eliminating the bother of weighing out amounts and allowing you to adjust the amount of salt as you like. By introducing Overflow Prevention Function (patent pending) to the cap for the very first time in the Japanese salt industry, only a little amount of salt comes out from the small mouth at a shake. The number, size, and position of the holes of this mouth are well considered so that salt will be sprinkled appropriately and effectively over ingredients and food. In addition to it, a large mouth is provided for a large amount, so you can choose which one to use when cooking.

Refill Pack of Granule Potato Starch "Toromi-Chan"

• Japanese Consumers' Co-operative Union
• Toppan Inc.

A bottle with a removable cap for potato starch that can sprinkle straight away into pans while cooking and a new refill product have been improved. When refilling the bottle, a notch created in the lower part of opening in the pouch can be fixed onto the mouth of the bottle. The illustration of the refilling method is placed on the front with a detailed explanation on the back. The notch is also colored, so that consumers can recognize it easily.

Gummy Packaging Design with UV Color Inks

• Kasugai Seika Co., Ltd.
• Dynapac Co., Ltd.

Targeting young people in their twenties and sold exclusively in a chain of convenience stores, we have developed a packaging that changes design using an ink that develops color when exposed to ultraviolet light. The ink is sensitive to UV rays from sunlight which is transparent before exposure and turns pink when exposed. When left indoors at room temperature after exposure, the ink turns back clear, and can be re-exposed repeatedly. With the product being a limited release in spring, we have expressed its seasonal concept using UV colored ink for part of the cherry blossom design which "blossoms" the flowers when exposed to sunlight.

FROMAGE UKISHIMA・YUKI Package

• KAMAKURA BENIYA CO., LTD.
• SASATOKU PRINTING CO., LTD.

A special takeout/gift package has been developed for the Fromage Ukishima YUKI cheesecake sold limited to brick-and-mortar stores. This one piece package including a body and a lid conveys a softness of the entire box using curved corners on the four sides of the top surface. The package body is considered to have a lower front side, so the entire product is visible to the delight of consumers when opening the box. The design is simple and cream-colored, and the product logo is silver-foil-stamped on the top of the package made of KIHOUSHI paper. The warm texture and shape complement the design, giving the package a snow-like gentleness that evokes the product's features.

Family Pack thinning and introducing Smile Eco Mark

• LOTTE CO., LTD.

The amount of plastic used in exterior package of family pack products has been reduced by about 16% by thinning materials. In addition, to express consideration for the global environment with a leaf motif and to make people smile with our products, we have established these four unique environmental standards: 1. Use of forest certified paper, 2. Using recycled paper, 3. Use of bioplastics and recycled plastics at least 10% by weight and 4. Reduction of plastic usage by 10% or more compared to the standard products. Additionally, we have created the "Smile Eco Mark" to be displayed on products which meet the standards.

AZUKIBAR SERIES (RED BEAN, MATCHA, MILK)

• IMURAYA CO., LTD.
• IMURAYA MALAYSIA SDN.BHD.
• IMURAYA STARTUP PLANNING CO., LTD.
• Rengo Co., Ltd.

IMURAYA MALAYSIA SDN.BHD., which was established in Malaysia by IMURAYA GROUP CO., LTD., began local manufacturing and sales of ice cream. Imuraya's main product Azuki Bar was fully localized for Malaysia while taking advantage of the characteristics of the existing product. To ensure that Muslims –who make up about 60% of the population –can enjoy it, we have selected halal-certified ingredients and adjusted the sweetness, texture, and package design to suit local tastes. This is the first Azuki Bar series produced and sold overseas.

Plastic filmless, heat sealable and barrier able flexible paper package with aqueous ink jet printing

• KANAOKA holdings CO., LTD.
• MITSUBISHI PAPER MILLS LIMITED CO., LTD.

These are all-paper packages without plastic films for chocolate developed with sustainability as its main concept. The paper material used is barricote® (FSC®-certified paper) launched by Mitsubishi Paper Mills Limited, which is heat-sealable and possesses oxygen and water vapor barrier properties. Digital water-based inkjet printing is also utilized to pursue eco-friendly converting. It is plateless and organic solvent free. Compared to gravure printing, ink waste can be decreased, and inventory disposal also reduced because small lots production are possible by using digital printing.

Fukuya Rusk Mentai Flavor

• Fukuya Co., LTD.

Two flavors of rusks have been developed as snacks using mentaiko (salted cod roe): Mentaiko & Garlic and Mentaiko & Sugar. The outer box is a series of combined boxes containing each of the two flavors of products. A boy on a skateboard is printed on the outer box, and with the right display method of the product boxes, the boys can appear holding hands with one another. When the sticker is peeled off, the box folds out like a book, revealing a nostalgic retro design reminiscent of Japan's period of rapid economic growth. The inside can be cut out in a circular shape for children to play as Menko (a Japanese card game) and for adults as a coaster for beer cans or cups.

Excellent Sweets (Millefas, Rasucre, Raisinne, Myleaf)

• Bourbon Corporation

During product renewal, packaging materials were reviewed in order to develop an environmentally friendly product while also cultivating a sense of luxury. FSC-certified paper was used for the coated cardboard of the box, thickness of the individual packaging films was thinned down by 5 microns, and biomass film was used for part of the films. The thinner film and the use of biomass plastic have greatly contributed to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The product package displays the biomass mark of the Japan Organics Recycling Association and a FSC certification mark.

Konjac Jelly Soda Flavor Carton Box

• Rengo Co., Ltd.
• IA-Foods co., ltd.

Along with the package renewal of the konjac jelly soda series, the corrugated box design has also been renewed. Previously, brown linerboard were used, but with the aim of enhancing product recognition and improving brand image, it was replaced by Rengo's in-house developed containerboard Smart Eco White (SEW), which is made of environmentally friendly 100% recycled paper. The new linerboard color increase its recognizability and care about environment simultaneously. Besides the package renewal, animal illustrations are added to the design to attract consumers. The sizzle and colors of each item are developed to indicate each flavor clearly.

Packaging for Colorful SDG-friendly Smoothies

• Fukuren Inc.
• The Nippon Foundation
• RKB MAINICHI BROAD CASTING CORPORATION
• Nihon Tetra Pak K,K
• NIPPON STRAW Co., ltd.
• Oji Container Co., ltd.
• OKAYAMA PAPER INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.

As a collaboration product of Fukuren x Sea and Japan Project CHANGE FOR THE BLUE, which itself is a collaboration of six different companies, we have developed beverages and packaging that correspond to UN Sustainable Development Goals and conducted promotional activities. Digitally printed cardboard is used for point-of-purchase ads (trays, fixtures). Juice boxes will be collected free of charge by the Tetra Pak Recycling Service after consumed and a Bio-straw contains more than 25% of biomass plastic (bio-PE). The outer container is made of cardboards with a recycling rate of over 90% and digitally printed in line with the design of the juice box. From the QR code printed on the individual package, an animation video about trash sorting for recycling can be viewed, in which the character Bunbetsu-kun happily educates about recycling sorting.

ICHI-GO-CAN: Tack Label Sake Cans by Digital Printing for Small Lot

• TOYO SEIKAN CO., LTD.
• Agnavi. inc

To make assorted Japanese sake brands more accessible, the ICHI-GO-CAN® business was established to sell local sake in bulk, filled and labeled at their breweries using 180ml-size aluminum cans as containers (which block UV rays, a major adversary of sake). By providing plain aluminum cans and digitally printed tack labels to the breweries and renting out simple filling and labeling equipment, the initial capital investment can be greatly reduced and labor shortages at the filling stations can also be relieved. Local sake, which is produced in small quantities to maintain quality, can also be delivered to consumers fresh while also showing the appeal of local breweries.

Aluminum Cup (Lumisus)

• TOYO SEIKAN CO., LTD.
• TOKAN KOGYO CO., LTD.

To realize SDGs and to eliminate plastic use, we have put into application an aluminum beverage cup using in-house technology and materials. The features are usage of aluminum (a recyclable resource), thinness, being lightweight, and an improved shape for enhanced usability. With aTULC (aluminum Toyo Ultimate Can) technology, no need to use water and energy consumption is minimized during manufacturing. Using our drawing and ironing technology, we achieved: optimal weight reduction that satisfies container performance during transportation and usage, good mouthfeel by optimizing curl shape, easy separation from the stacked state, easy recognition of the filled amount by a line added, high loading efficiency, good grip and ensured sanitation.

New Easy-peeling, Stain-free Roll Label Adhesive (for Craft Boss, Natural sparkling water, etc.)

• SUNTORY HOLDINGS LIMITED
• TOYOCHEM CO., LTD.

With regards to Roll Label Adhesive for PET bottles, by quantifying the optimal amount of adhesive applied and its adhesive strength in the manufacturing process, conducting usability evaluations and setting target values for ease of peeling, we have developed an adhesive with improved usability and manufacturing productivity efficiency. By ensuring that no adhesive remains on the PET bottle upon label peeling by consumers, it is also expected to have an improvement in quality of the PET recycling process.

"Asahi Jurokucha" PET 630ml Direct Marking Bottle

• ASAHI SOFT DRINKS CO., LTD.
• Ricoh CO., LTD.

To expand the industry's first completely label-free hand-selling channel, we have developed the Asahi Jurokucha PET 630ml Direct Marking Bottle using Ricoh Co., Ltd.'s laser marking technology. Label-free bottles without label stickers eliminate an additional work of removing them after drinking and simplify separation and sorting. By using laser marking technology, the product name, raw material, contact information and recycling mark can be directly printed, so that the amount of plastic used for the stickers has been reduced.

KAGOME Tomato Juice Smart Eco Bottle

• KAGOME Co., Ltd.
• Toyo Seikan Group Holdings, Ltd.
• Toyo Seikan Co., Ltd.
• Fujiseal Co., Ltd.

The conventional Smart PET has been revamped for improved usability and environmental friendliness. The weight of the preform is lighter than the conventional one and uses 100% mechanically recycled materials. The length of the label is reduced from seventy percent of the bottle height to a half-length and thinned down to reduce the amount of plastic used. The grip has been improved with a groove in the center and sides of the bottle for easy-to-hold. The elliptical groove on the shoulder on the short side of the bottle makes it easy to pick up and peel off the thin label using fingers. The panels in the body of the bottle have been removed as much as possible to reduce pushback when the bottle is squeezed by hand and to be easier to crush.

Eco-friendly Packaging for 3 Cans

• SAPPORO BREWERIES LTD.

We have developed eco-friendly 3-can packaging for the Yebisu Hop Terroir. Since the cans are held at the top by this packaging, the bottom area does not require paper materials, reducing the amount of paper used per can by about 30% compared to the conventional 6-can pack. The stylish package shape has created an eye-catching product. A simple structure does not require additional materials such as hot melt adhesive and can be easily attached at the store. To improve finger contact and avoid the damage to the fingers when held, semi-arc notches are provided at the position where the fingers meet, and an opening zipper is added at the top to take out the cans easily.

Hands free Easy-Open Drinking Lid with Scent Opening

• TOKAN KOGYO CO., LTD.

We have developed a "non-action" type of a spout for drinking lid that can be opened hands-free, and also allows consumers to enjoy the drink and its aroma simultaneously by simply pressing the protrusion on the spout (cutout) of the lid with the upper lip which leads to open the drink part and the aroma one of the spout.

While tilting the cup, a consumer can drink without using the hands by pressing the protrusion with the upper lip, and can furthermore enjoy the aroma of the drink through the opened aroma part of the spout placed around the nostril.

ALBION PRIMP POWDERLESST

• ALBION CO., LTD.
• YOSHINO KOGYOSHO CO., LTD.
• Oji Holdings Corporation
• Ueroku Printing CO., LTD.

A pursuit of refined beauty with a minimalist shape highlighted by silver lines, the ruddy pink color and texture express the softness of bare skin. For the refill container, we have opted in favor of a new pulp container instead of the conventional plastic to be plastic-free package. In addition to the functionality to protect the delicate contents from shocks, considered adjustments to the colors and textures have been applied. The outer sleeve has a printed manual inside to eliminate the additional paper, reducing the amount of paper used.

POLA B.A base make

• POLA INC.

Spotlighting the uniqueness and diversity of life that thrives in harsh environments, the design pursues beauty approaching the essence of life through X-ray images of mysterious and unique plants photographed by an artist. We have adopted a refillable container to reduce the amount of waste, and partially utilized bio-PET to reproduce the deep black of our luxury brand color while considering eco-friendliness. FSC certified paper is also used for the box. The product information is accessible through a QR code to eliminate the pamphlet included previously.

PARABIO AC SERUM SAJ

• Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.

We have developed a package where design and functionality coexist. The entire container is decorated with the traditional Japanese Shippo pattern, expressing an endless chain of eternal beauty. The center is constricted for excellent grip and the widened bottom provides high stability. It is easy to check the remaining amount and to use until the end. The Shippo pattern, which is expressed by texture processing and engraving, also plays a role of anti-slip. A universal design font is used to improve the legibility of the liability statement.

Ever-evolving Dimple® Bottle

• Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

The bottle has a dimpled body to squeeze and use eye drops easier. In addition, the decagonal (10-sided) cap helps users to open easily and prevent rolling, and the label has a slit to make the remaining liquid visible. For more than 10 years, these functions to improve ‘the usability' and ‘the visibility' have been continuously applied. Furthermore, by using biomass plastic for the body, we have added a new core value that contributes to reducing environmental impact while maintaining the quality demanded for eye drop containers.

ALLIE CHRONO BEAUTY GEL UV EX limited edition package
ALLIE CHRONO BEAUTY TONE UP UV 01 limited edition package

• Kao Corporation
• Toppan Inc.
• COLOR Inc.

Sunscreen series Allie has initiated the "Think Sustainability Action". The newly adopted "beach-friendly prescription" is designed in consideration of regulations in some countries, regions and beaches, and part of the product proceeds will be donated to environmental conservation groups. As one effort, the outer package has been changed from film packaging to upcycled paper boxes. Charles M. Schulz, the creator of Peanuts, who advocates to "take care to create a future where everyone can smile", has often depicted the importance of caring for yourself, the people around you, and the Earth in his comics. We also agreed with these values, leading to this collaboration.

yuskin hana

• EIGHT BRANDING DESIGN Co., Ltd.

While compromising the existing consumer base, we have renewed the package to develop new consumers. The material for outer package has been changed from plastic to paper for eco-friendliness and the cap can be removed to use up all the content. The package has a cutout style illustration with a flower motif to create a modern and natural aesthetic.

YASHINOMI dish washing detergent eco-pack set

• SARAYA Co., Ltd.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Yashinomi Detergent, we have created a limited-edition design product set inspired by the nature of Borneo, the raw material production location. As an environmental approach that can be made by our products, the people and environment-friendly Yashinomi detergent, to solve the issue of plastic pollution in the ocean, we have introduced sustainable materials such as 100% recycled PET bottles, refill packs containing plant resin, and FSC-certified paper set boxes.

Silcot Wet Tissue 99.99% Anti-bacteria 100pcs

• Unicharm Corporation
• Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.

A high-capacity, horizontal box-shaped wet tissue package. A flexible rubber seal set closely against the rib of the hard container has reduced the risk that the liquid in the sheets would dry out. With the bounceback of the button spring and the sliding distance between the top cover and the button hook, it can be opened easily with one finger while staying airtight. Thanks to a movable range that can be pushed into the bottom from outside to form a convex shape, it is easy to take out a sheet even when only a few sheets remain in the container.

The appearance is considered by flattening the top surface without exceeding the height of a typical high-end tissue box placed on a table. The opening is shaped like a sideways 8 (∞) and treated not to hurt the fingers, so that it is comfortable to put fingers inside when a sheet falls and has to be picked up again.

Hakariuri-do

• Kao Corporation

With SDGs activities on the rise, in order to introduce people to experience buying the content by weight as a new alternative to disposing containers, Kao has designed and created a space at a store where our detergents and fabric softeners can be purchased in the amount they need, along with a container that can be brought and reused. The design includes motifs of noren curtains and furoshiki bags which represent traditional Japanese commerciality "selling by weight" and conveys familiarity and accessibility for taking climate action. We have aimed for a universal packaging design that attracts consumers and motivates them to reuse the packaging.

NONIO Mouthwash Refill ecoPACK

• LION Corporation

We have devised a refill pouch for mouthwash that can be used to refill bottle containers, which use to be disposable, and have reduced the amount of plastic waste by approximately 76% compared to the 600ml container. While being a high-capacity container, it is easy to display thanks to its compact height that fits on shelves in stores. However, since the pouch height is low, the upper part is easy to bend when standing upright so that appearance, and damage due to transportation vibration became an issue. To solve this issue, both bottom sides of the pouch have been made sloped upwards to improve the standing performance. The spout angle is also considered for easy pouring when refilling low-viscosity mouthwash. This is an approachable, simple and stylish pouch featuring environmentally friendliness.

CARTON 2.0

• KOKUYO Co., Ltd.
• IZAK Co., Ltd

A practical archive box for daily life has been developed inspired by the cardboard boxes to carry marine products and refrigerated goods. The functionality of the material, which is cardboard laminated with PET aluminum deposition film, protects contents from moisture and keeps them cool. The structure can also hold water, giving the box other potential uses such as a planter. The box can be used in all kinds of scenarios, such as storing important documents and clothes, keeping food cold, or as a laundry box. This packaging can be assembled into the box form without the use of any adhesives.

Tamaputi

• Kawakami Sangyo Co., Ltd.
• NEQAS Co., Ltd.

About 200,000 tons of eggshells are disposed annually, and while they are also used as soil conditioners and fertilizers, most of them are incinerated as waste. By collaborating eggshells and bubble sheet together, which respectively are biomass materials derived from waste, and have a high ratio of recycled materials, we aimed to develop upcycled products and to reduce CO₂ emissions from incineration processes. An eggshell-containing film is laminated on a smooth surface opposite of bubble sheet grains, creating a bumpy texture on the film surface, similar to that of washi paper. Coloring is possible by adding pigments to the film, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

CAZAN

• Kawahara Shiki CO., LTD
• Aizawa Corporatiion

This product is burning aid for bonfires which can form curved mountain shape to set and surround firewood. The packaging sleeve is made to be as minimalistic as possible to reduce the amount of material used and is designed to wrap the product with the minimum surface including the handle. The sleeve is fan-shaped, so that it can be used when starting a fire.

Hananoa label-free

• KOBAYASHI Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

The nasal cleaning solution Hananoa has become an environmentally friendly label-free product. We have applied CO₂ laser printing directly on the bottle and succeeded in commercializing it with decorations. It is the first initiative in the healthcare industry to print letters and logos on bottles, which is applicable to various products.

Shumitect Complete one EX regular toothbrush

• GSK Consumer Healthcare Japan k.k.

Toothbrush packages generally opt for blister card packaging which consists of plastic and paper. However, we have created a 100% plastic-free package made entirely of paper materials. Recycled paper (approximately 90%) is used for the Back card, and transparent cellulose film is used instead of plastic for the window displaying the toothbrush inside, so that the customer can choose the color of toothbrush in stores.

Hammock Style Packing for Bird Perch

• Leaf Corporation
• Rengo Co., Ltd.

We have developed a cardboard net cushioning material for Binchōtan charcoal perches for pet birds. The netted cushioning sheet fits the product by simply placing and rolling it up, and legs form at the four corners to create a suspension, realizing an excellent packaging workability and shock-absorption. Without the need for bubble wrapping, the cardboard-only cushioning has contributed to mitigate environmental load.

Plum Kelp Tea Post-in Gift with Plum Shaped Package to Protect Contents

• Crown Package Co., Ltd.
• NAKATA FOODS CO., LTD.

Developed as a gift package that makes it easy to send stick-type powdered tea. This post-in type package can be received non-face-to-face and does not require redelivery. Adopting a cute plum design, the product is fixed with a partition decorated with plum blossoms, creating a surprise when the package is opened.

The material used is ultra-thin corrugated board "Micro-flute", with a three-tiered structure that provides reliable cushioning. While the considered shape and design reduce the risk of damage during delivery and firmly protect the product, the package can be opened easily.

Also, forest certified paper is used as the material in consideration of the environment.

Paper Packaging for Hato Sable

• Toshimaya Co., Ltd.
• NIPPON PAPER INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.

The plastic tray and cushioning materials used for the can and paper boxes of Kamakura's famous confection Hato Sable have been replaced with paper. Repeated transport and packaging tests have secured both strength and cushioning properties of pulp mold partition tray and paper cushioning. Adjusting the structure and depth of the pulp mold, the new packaging was started to be used from January 2021 after two years of development. It is expected to reduce the amount of single-use plastic by 100 tons annually thanks to this improvement.

Reversi Board

• Rengo Co., Ltd.
• Kracie Home Products, Ltd.

We have developed a store sales promotion board that is printed on the inside of the outer box and used inside out to achieve zero waste and to reduce the efforts of in-store disposal operations. ①The cardboard stands are included in the folded flaps at both ends of the board, and the outer box can be transformed into a promotional board. ②The board has an increased warp strength by setting 15 mm frames on the top and bottom of the board. ③The board can be extended 150mm to the left and right. With these new specifications, it achieved reduction by approximately 53% in amount of paper used, and 25% in transportation costs compared to current style.

Cardboard Box with a Handle for Strawberry

• JA Mito
• MORISHIGYO GROUP

A unique hexagonal carry case for two packs of strawberries at the JA Mito farmstand. The bottom lock system prevents the contents from falling out, enabling the unique hexagonal shape. A handle is added to the top surface to take it home easily. The edges of the strawberry packs inside the bag are fixed by hooking them into the holes in the corners, so that the contents are stabilized during transport. The original shape and design of the box are expected to boost the brand recognition of the production area.

100% Paper Made Hanger DP

• Artnap CO., Ltd.
• Links Co., Ltd.

While hanger fixtures are commonly assembled by attaching plastic hooks, metal hooks, and string to a cardboard backing, we have realized an all-paper hanger fixture. The paper hook can be attached to the mount and then can be fixed to the mesh board of the display in stores by using a small hook on the back. Each paper hook has a 500g load capacity.

Plastic Recycling Box Made from Recycled Uniforms of Station Attendants

• Unilever Japan Customer Marketing K.K.
• TOKYU RAILWAYS
• Kadokura & Co., Inc.
• Beta Design

Since November 2020, we have been collaborating with TOKYU RAILWAYS to promote plastic reduction and recycling through the UMILE Program; TOKYU RAILWAYS employee uniforms to be discarded are turned back into cotton and then into boards to create a recycling bin. The bin is installed near the ticket gate of Minami-Machida Grandberry Park Station of the Den-en-toshi Line. Both a clear window on the front of the bin and a lid covering the opening prevent people from throwing trash in it. By installing it at stations, we can motivate people to recycle plastic easily in various situations, such as during their commute to work or school on weekdays and during outings on weekends and holidays.

Swell Prevention with Stepped Intermittent Double Crease Lines

• Suntory Holdings Limited
• Rengo Co., Ltd.

Due to extreme summer weather in recent years, boxes are susceptible to swell, increasing the risk of buckling and even collapse. In order to lessen these problems, a gap is provided to the single crease line at both ends of the intermittent double crease line, in which single crease lines and double crease lines are alternately arranged, so the bottom part with double crease lines is inclined to the upper side, and the single crease part which easily causes the box swell does not touch the ground. As a result, box swell can be reduced without up grading the board material nor changing used area and quantity.

Resource-saving Vic-Tray

• JA Fruits Yamanashi.
• JA Zennoh Yamanashi.
• Rengo Co., Ltd.

Trays for fresh vegetables often collapse due to lack of strength. Therefore, by forming a curved crease line on the bottom of the tray, the load on the long sides, which is easily damaged, has been reduced and the load the corners support have been increased. In addition, the inner flaps are curved to keep the sides upright. Previously, the package was improved by upgrading the materials and increasing the material area, which resulted in an increase in CO₂ emissions and material costs. Meanwhile, we have achieved both resource saving and increased strength through this design improvement.

Reduced cardboard use in "Sakusaku One touch" Bottom lock

• TOMOKU CO., LTD.
• SHIPS LTD.

Auto-lock bottom cases which can be assembled in one operation are widely used for their high work efficiency. However, they require larger volume of material and costs than 0201 type boxes. Therefore, we have improved the locking mechanism and an easy-to-assemble box which needs the same amount of material as 0201 type boxes. Features include: 1. when the box is unfolded, short-sided flaps are engaged with long-sided flaps to secure the bottom, eliminating the need to lock the longer flaps together, and 2. the bottom is interlocked with the long and short flaps to maintain its shape and prevent the bottom from falling out after assembly. As a result, the amount of material used, and the costs have been reduced in addition to the CO₂ emissions decreased by 5%.

Flap Repulsion Suppressing Arched Crease Line

• ADEKA Corporation
• Oji Container Co., Ltd.

We have developed an outer box using the 0201 model box which can prevent repulsion of the flaps and be sealed tightly even in the use of sturdy materials. Conventionally, to solve this issue, the box was processed by a punching machine after adding the staggered perforated lines to the flaps, resulting in having an extra manufacturing step, increasing costs. Therefore, arched crease line have been added to the outer flaps to decrease the repulsion and straight lines to the inner flaps to help them overlap easily. As a result, the same manufacturing process as the 0201 model is applicable, while reducing the cardboards used by approximately 6% and lead time as well.

Alcohol Takeaway Box: Awase-waza

• Daio Package Corporation

Previously, alcoholic beverages were packed with formed polyethylene sheets, bubble wrap and plastic bags, however, the process was time-consuming with numerous steps and demanded skills of the packing workers. In response, we have developed an adhesive-free takeout box for alcohol made from a single piece of cardboard. By simply inserting the left and right sides of a single cardboard sheet into each other and propping up the handle when the bottle is in, the takeaway box is created featuring all cardboard made, easy-to-assemble, easy-to-use and stylishness.

Hacoletter

• Sagasiki Co., Ltd.

We have developed an innovative DM packaging for companies and organizations which have customer databases and members. They extract targets based on customer status and attributes and send it out to lead to conversions (membership registration/material requests) and repeats (repurchase/revisit). Since the contents and envelope are integrated, this packaging can eliminate the additional work, be manufactured on the conventional package production line, and print the address directly by digital printing. A unique shape allows you to open it simply by folding. In addition, this all paperboard-made packaging can be recycled after use.

Single Action Opening Bag (PV+)

• OHISHI SANGYO CO., LTD.
• YANAGISAWA SEITAI CO., LTD.

Milling paper bags (PV bags) are mainly designed to be opened by pulling the tape at the bottom which is made of plastic. To eliminate the risk of contamination and enhance environmentally friendliness, we have developed a paper bag which can be opened in one action called "Ikkikaifu-tai (PV+)". The bag can be opened by peeling off the decorative paper without a zipper, thereby eliminating plastic, preventing contamination, and further reducing the operation process when opening. As a result, amount of plastic used has been reduced by 1 tons/year per factory, and work time for opening operation by about 20%. The decorative paper can remain attached to the opening part not to be lost and mixed in the content.

Ajipon Quick Open Shipper

• Mizkan Co., Ltd.
• Rengo Co., Ltd.

Our conventional cardboard package for this product was opened by zipper and separated to be a product display tray in stores. This newly developed SRP has a perforated line to reduce working time for opening and enhance its appearance. The pitch of the perforation is considered to achieves both impact resistance and easy opening. The cardboard has been changed from A flute to B flute to improve transportation efficiency during delivery and environmental impact has been mitigated due to the reduced corrugated medium. Outer package design is also considered to appeal each product through the product features and catch copies.

All-corrugated board packaging for hoist trolleys

• Hitachi Transport System, Ltd.

An electric hoist trolleys to lift and move heavy objects overhead is also heavy itself, therefore, the packaging consisted of corrugated cardboard for the outer box and wood for the inner components. To reduce environmental load, we aimed to change the material from wood to cardboard although wood had load-bearing performance and the function of preventing collapsing. To replace it, pressure resistance performance has been added to the inner component made of cardboard by having a double sleeved octagonal structure and a strengthened cardboard mount at the bottom without using wood. As a result, material costs have been reduced by 20%.

Environmentally Friendly Packaging for Thin LED Ceiling Lights

• Settsu Carton Co., Ltd.

The packaging for thin LED ceiling lights is thin and heavy (approximately 50% more) compared to the popular packaging which has an opening sideways, therefore, the product had to be put from above into the special package. We have improved the package by adjusting the side pads to increase cushioning performance to clear the drop test standards and enable an opening sideways. As a result, the amount of cardboard used in the outer box has been reduced by 26%, cushioning material by 39% and CO₂ emission by 34%, resulting in mitigating environmental impact. Furthermore, by reducing the amount of cardboard used, the costs and the amount of cardboard waste have been significantly reduced.

Environmentally friendly all-corrugated cardboard (packaging material set for laminating machines)

• Wacon Co., Ltd.

With the model change of the laminator (weighing approx. 30kg), we aimed to replace the conventional packaging made of corrugated cardboard and foamed polyethylene with all-cardboard packaging to meet the demand for eco-friendliness. Each tray pad is designed to prevent the output tray and paper feed tray from touching the main unit. Side pads with folded structure are placed to ensure strength, and power cord is placed in the gap between the main unit and the output tray. As a result, we have cleated all-cardboard eco-friendly packaging as requested after clearing the drop test of 1 corner, 3 edges, 6 faces.

One-piece packaging for RFID readers with integrated accessory storage and cushioning material

• DENSO WAVE Incorporated.
• DENSO LOGITEM CORPORATION.
• CHUOH PACK INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

Packaging for a RFID reader which is a precision device has been developed to reduce the number of parts used and to enhance assembly workability and protectability while mitigating the environmental impact. We have created a structure in which a single corrugated cardboard sheet is available for both an outer box and cushioning and the flaps provide a space for storing accessories. It can be delivered as a flat board to reduce the storage space. This is high performance packaging featuring enhanced cushioning properties and workability.

Simple package for PC and tablet

• Ishino Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
• Sanyo Package System Co., Ltd.
• Takeda Sangyo Co., Ltd.

PC repairs and replacements often cause damages due to unfamiliar packaging work because the size of contents vary from 12 to 15.6 inches wide and conventional cushioning method caused unstable cushioning properties. Therefore, we have developed and put into practical use a suspended one-piece film buffer to accommodate various types of PCs in one package. The packaging consists of non-slip polyurethane film attached to corrugated cardboard, and a PC is placed between them to be suspended in the center. The side of the package can be used as an opening to improve load resistance. Packaging consists of 3 parts, and can be assembled by simply folding. The label allows anyone to achieve the same packaging.

Package combining beauty and functionality with gray recycled paper

• Sony Group Corporation
• Sony Corporation
• Sony Global Manufacturing & Operations Corporation
• TOKUMI Corporatiion
• Phoenix Engineering Corporation

Focusing on going plastic-free as our basic policy, visualizing environmentally conscious attitudes toward consumers is crucial for embodying consumers' recycling behaviors and raising environmental awareness. Using a coated board, the conventional impression of recycled paper as low-quality has been reincarnated into a quality found in high-end packaging. To represent both the beauty and functionality of the design made of pure gray recycled paper, gray paper is used for entire surface to be recognized as an eco-friendly packaging. Intentionally damaged gray paper gives shape to a design as an attractive material. The opening action is pulling out for all packaging, giving functionality and presentation from the first encounter with the product to the first use. All packaging is created with only plant-based materials.

Product/Eco-friendly Flat Hold Packaging

• Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
• INOAC CORPORATION
• ITOCHU Pulp & Paper Corporation
• CHUOH PACK INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

Packaging material for painted automotive exterior parts which requires protection of the design surface. Conventional products used a fixing material made of corrugated cardboard affixed with chemical products and a plastic bag for protecting the painted surface. However, to make the product more environmentally conscious, we have developed an eco-friendly cardboard packaging. A fixed structure with a flap fitted to the back side of the product enables flat holding without touching the product surface. Furthermore, this packaging is applicable to both the conventional and new models. As a result, packing time has been reduced by 56% and transportation efficiency improved by 11%.

Assembled in 2 seconds: Shipping box for 4 circular saws

• Dynapac Co., Ltd.

Circular saws were previously shipped from Japan to overseas factories where they were repackaged into locally procured boxes, packed with accessories and sold as a set. In order to deliver circular saws from Japan more efficiently, it was necessary to reduce shipping costs and improve workability. Thus, we developed an inner packaging component to fix 4 products applying our in-house developed Shimaoka lock, which can be assembled in 2 seconds by simply winding the left and right sides. In order to prevent the blade from touching the bottom, the components suspend the circular saw in air. The folded part of the inner components is placed at the center of the circular saw to be assembled easily and providing strength while having a small area. The side-wall of the inner component consists the crossing structure to keep the inner material from falling sideways, allowing the product to be safely delivered.

Parts Packaging Tray

• TSK corporation

This vacuum-formed tray has been developed to contain rod-shaped parts in two rows horizontally for a specified container in response to requests from clients. Due to the dimensions of the parts, container, and vacuum-formed product, it was not possible to lay them out horizontally, so by placing the parts in a slanted tray, they are now stored in two rows in a designated container. By turning the tray 180 degrees, the packages can be stacked and prevent the contents from coming out during transport.

All Cardboard Package for Industrial Electron Tube

• SBS TOSHIBA LOGISTICS CORPORATION

As industrial electron tubes have fragile internal components, they are protected by cushioning materials made from foamed polyethylene welded to corrugated cardboard for delivery. Issues regarding their packaging include going plastic-free and the size and weight of the collection box that required two people to work. Therefore, we have developed a cushioning material consisting of upper and lower parts made by cardboard sheets which can be simply and minimally assembled. Flaps are provided to support the product evenly without spreading the load onto the main product body. As a result, packaging volume has been reduced by approximately 77%, material costs by approximately 65%, transportation costs by approximately 58%, and man-hours by approximately 30% (enabling a one-man job). In addition, as plastic cushioning materials have been eliminated, CO₂ emissions have been reduced by approximately 25%, eventually contributing to reduced environmental impact and sustainability.

Simple inner design which satisfies product fixing and vibration-proofing with 1 component

• SBS TOSHIBA LOGISTICS CORPORATION

This magnetic contactor is manufactured by a subcontractor, sent to our clients and shipped to the final destination company when ready, but there was a risk of parts falling off due to vibration during transport. To prevent this, blocks made of PE foam were put to support the content by subcontractors. To find a better solution, we have developed a special packaging; only one inner material is used to fix one product, which prevents forgetting to put in the container and ensures the working procedures. The material can also be used from subcontractors to shipment to the customer, enabling the efficient use of the material. In addition, the specifications have excellent workability, so that unpacking and repacking can be performed quickly at various locations and packing costs have been reduced by about 15% compared to conventional packaging for shipping to customers.

Consolidation of packaging materials for shaft gears shipped overseas

• Nippon Tokan package Co., Ltd.

This packaging for 12 shaft gears consists of two inner packaging components in upper and lower areas containing 6 slots each and an outer box for shipping. Conventionally, the upper and lower parts had different shapes, requiring additional order and management and causing problems such as oversights. To solve this issue, we have standardized inner components to consolidating materials. As a result, by dividing the inner components into two on the longer side, the top, bottom, left and right have the same shape and the material management is consolidated. Also, we achieved reduction in materials used, resulting in a cost reduction of approximately 15%. Thanks to the standardization, mistakes in the procedure has been eliminated, work efficiency improved, and man-hours reduced.

Cardboard Tray for containers

• U-PACK Corporation

Metal parts products used to be stored in a vacuum-formed tray and then in a container box for transportation between factories. However, producing a mold for vacuum-formed trays is not always practical in case the volume of production is small, so we have developed cardboard trays. To contain the same number of metal parts and the same storage method as vacuum-formed tray is required, therefore, we have adopted a sleeve type cardboard which is assembled by folding from both sides having the center area lower than both sides. The weight of the products is loaded on the center considering the strength of the cardboard tray. Additionally, the protruding shaft on one side of the product is fixed into a hole, and the other is attached to a hole created for the product.

Circulation box for pipes

• TOYOTSU NEWPACK corporatiion

This is a returnable box for pipe-shaped products to replace the conventional box which was made from resin injection molded parts and low-density polystyrene which required a huge cost. Usually, the products are stored using a machine, so the packaging materials require precision and strength. Therefore, we have combined punched-out plastic sheets to create a three-dimensional shape and give it strength.

To avoid instability and lack of strength, the length of slits are made longer to the upper end, and a bottom plate is added to suppress wobbling at the bottom. As a result, we created a structure with precision and strength even with combined punched-out parts.

Worker and Eco-friendly roll-only tray

• Nabiace Corporation

After launching products, the production of electronic parts has been increased by more than three times. Continuously, new electronic components have been released to the market. Therefore, we have improved the packaging to reduce number of parts and assembly man-hours, enhance transportation efficiency, develop dual-use packaging for both new and previous products and reduce packaging material weight. As a result, we have changed the packaging parts to one tray type and reduced the number of parts from 14 to 1, greatly reducing management required for parts and packaging storage space. Additionally, this packaging is available for both previous and new types preventing an increase in the amount of product numbers. As a result, the total number of assembly man-hours has been reduced by 67%, and CO₂ emissions by 30%. The assembly time is zero while the production volume is three times more and the dual use is applicable.

Optimum Reduced Padding

• DENSO AIRCOOL CORPORATION

General purpose hot water heaters for the domestic market include a wide variety of products and have been on the market since the 1990s. Laminated materials have been used as inner packaging components since then and posed challenges around workability, material storage space, cost, and standardization. Therefore, we have improved packaging aiming at reducing the total costs for inner components, packaging man-hours, storage space, transportation, etc. As a result, the pad which will support the same area of each product has been standardized to be applicable for 10 types of products, a symmetrical shape has been created to minimize packaging errors, all the inner components can be delivered unfolded, enabling improved transport and storage efficiency and one-step assembly. In addition, elimination of the laminated materials has achieved a 20% cost reduction and 50% improvement in transportation and storage efficiency.

F.C.C. 31H Octagonal Carton for North America

• F.C.C. CO., LTD.
• Musahi Oji Container Co., Ltd.

Packaging for ATV (4-wheel buggy) drive system parts to export to assembly plants in the United States. We worked on reducing costs and improving packaging work in the past, but the current issues of labor shortage problems and reducing work man-hours at packaging sites are critical, therefore, we have started developing new packaging specifications. As a result of making the outer box octagonal, integrating the lock on the bottom of the outer box and the attached partition, reviewing the materials against increased box compression strength caused by changing of box shape, and adjusting bottom structure and working on material loss reduction, material costs have been reduced by 35% and an assembly man-hours by 20%.

Corrugated cardboard equipment for overseas transportation of automobile parts

• CHUOH PACK INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

Due to the disruption of marine transportation caused by Covid-19, we are facing a shortage of equipment for transportation and required developing an all-cardboard packaging that can be supplied as a stable alternative to the conventional iron packaging. The four sides of the sleeve can be bent outward, and easily put in and take out the contents, enabling packing work with a small number of people and in a short time. In addition, it can be stacked on the conventional iron packaging. As a result, we have succeeded in commercializing cardboard packaging which has reduced weight by 63%, enhanced safety and friendliness to people and the environment.

Steel-free Sustainable corrugated board packaging that achieves CO₂ reduction

• Oji Interpack Co., Ltd.

Original rolls for automobile seats (length 1700×diameter 300 mm) used to be stored in one-way steel racks (inner dimensions 2200×1110×1010 mm), which left large negative spaces resulting in wasted container loading efficiency. In addition, rising a risk of injury at packing caused by the pillars, requiring development for safety. As a result of improving focusing on loading efficiency and work efficiency, the outer size and volume have been reduced by 24%, the number of products per container increased by 20%, the number of 40ft containers used reduced by 15%, and man-hours to assemble the case reduced by 80% resulting in the reduction of annual costs of 46.8 million yen in total. Additionally, the CO₂ emissions have been reduced by 55% (1200 tons).

Combined packaging for 8 types of bathtubs

• Housetec Co., Ltd.
• SAKURA PAXX Co., Ltd.

To meet the demand, the packaging for 8 kinds of bathtubs having varied forms has been developed considering workability and functionality. The contents differ in manufacturing lots, so we have developed the common packaging for all products to reduce the costs and simplify material management. The material for the floor of the bathtub does not require adhesives to fix the position of the laminated corrugated cardboard which supports the tub floor and can be fixed simply by attached. The common parts are symmetrical in shape vertically and horizontally to reduce packaging errors. The package for accessories can also be fixed to the bottom without tape enabling on-site storage.

Trolley for Sheet Metal Parts

• DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.
• Ailop Corp.

Conventionally, medium-sized metal plate parts were delivered in different packing styles depending on manufacturer. Therefore, we have jointly developed a common cart that can be put into the line directly after delivery. By improving the inner components, a wide variety of products can be stored together, stacking work of boxes has been eliminated by delivering the product vertically, the cart can be used as a pushcart in the factory, and the parts can be put into the assembly line and replaced without using a hand lift. Thanks to a stackable structure, the short parts can be stacked when not in use to reduce waste of storage and transportation space. Transport, storage and cargo handling works have been standardized.

EPS Unique Pallet Series (PMC fit pallet)

• Toho industries co., LTD.

The current ULD (Unit Load Devices) using the existing plastic pallets for PMC have issues of poor loading efficiency when T11 pallets are loaded, because the space between pallets are filled with the skids which require additional volume and height. Therefore, we have invented PMC fit pallet made of EPS (expanded polystyrene).This pallet can set 6 PMC fit pallets without the skids, and the loading area has been improved by 5.2% and the loading height by 11.3%. In addition, by eliminating the skids, the weigh has been reduced by 80%, allowing more cargo to be loaded, leading to lower freight charges. This is light weight (1.7kg), it can be set by a single woman, and improving work efficiency and work load reduction have been achieved.

Improved Assembly Packaging for compressors

• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, LTD.
• MITA KOSAKU., LTD.

The issues of collective compressors packaging were wooden frames used that required assembly time, necessity to fix each product individually and increasing material costs. Therefore, by putting the product between two cardboard sheets and simplifying the design, the content is fixed, assembled and unpacked easily, reducing the costs for unpacking work. As a result, working cost has been reduced by 47% and transportation work on site has been completely eliminated. In addition, the low-cost corrugated cardboard used is strong enough to withstand a total weight of over 600 kg, reducing the amount of wood used by about 58%.

Paper-based plastic-less packaging for A3 multifunction printer

• RICOH COMPANY, LTD.
• SBS RICOH LOGISTICS SYSTEM CO., LTD.

To actualize our environmental management policy of creating a decarbonized society (reducing greenhouse gases) and circular economy (reducing the use of fossil-derived resources, addressing marine plastic litter issues), we have replaced the packaging material mainly composed of expanded polystyrene cushioning with pulp molded cushioning. The weight ratio of paper materials is now 96% including cardboard pallets. As a result, compared to conventional products, the amount of plastic used in packaging has been reduced by 54%, plastic waste by 1,033 tons, and greenhouse gas emissions by 6,347 tons-CO₂eq.