Asahi Kasei, Mitsui, Mitsubishi to Study Carbon-Neutral Ethylene Production in Western Japan

Asahi Kasei, Mitsui Chemicals, and Mitsubishi Chemical are moving forward in their joint efforts to achieve carbon neutrality at their ethylene production facilities in western Japan. In an announcement from May 8, 2024, titled “Asahi Kasei, Mitsui Chemicals, and Mitsubishi Chemical to Start Joint Feasibility Study on Carbon Neutrality of Ethylene Production Facilities in Western Japan,” the companies outlined key steps for transitioning these facilities towards sustainable operations. Their plan includes shifting to biomass feedstock and low-carbon fuel, aiming to reduce reliance on petroleum-derived resources, as well as considering optimized production arrangements for the future.

Initial discussions revealed that collaboration across different sites could provide significant benefits. As a result, the three companies have agreed to deepen their study into production optimization, focusing on carbon neutrality for these facilities and potential capacity reductions. This exploration will be based on forming a joint operating entity, which will help streamline the integration and execution of sustainable practices across locations.

The companies intend to leverage each partner’s Green Transformation (GX) technology to minimize carbon emissions within ethylene production. The collaboration will be structured to ensure that costs and benefits, including greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, are fairly shared among the three participants. In addition, the partners are examining efficient production arrangements, potentially through shared procurement of key chemicals and coordinated infrastructure development. The formal establishment of the joint operating entity will be initiated at a suitable time.

This agreement marks a significant step towards enhancing operational coordination across the companies’ sites in western Japan, accelerating the shift to carbon-neutral petrochemical production. As part of this initiative, the companies will engage with stakeholders to validate and align on their approach, ensuring transparency and support throughout the process. Through these efforts, Asahi Kasei, Mitsui Chemicals, and Mitsubishi Chemical aim to play a pivotal role in advancing carbon neutrality and supporting Japan’s circular economy within the chemical industry.

Asahi Kasei Corporation, a prominent Japanese multinational chemical company, was founded on May 21, 1931. Headquartered at Hibiya Mitsui Tower in Tokyo’s Chiyoda-ku, the company traces its origins to Nobeoka Ammonia Fiber Co., Ltd., a producer of ammonia, nitric acid, and other chemicals based in Nobeoka, Miyazaki. Using the paid-in capital from this predecessor, Asahi Kasei emerged as a key supplier in the chemical industry. Today, the company’s offerings have expanded significantly, encompassing a wide range of advanced materials and chemical products that serve numerous industries, including healthcare, electronics, construction, and automotive, establishing Asahi Kasei as a major player worldwide.