TotalEnergies Corbion Secures PLA Distribution Agreement in Japan

Nagase & Co., Ltd. has partnered with TotalEnergies Corbion to distribute Luminy® PLA bioplastics in Japan. This collaboration will help bring Luminy® PLA to a wider market in a country that is deeply committed to lowering greenhouse gas emissions. As one of the world’s leading economies, Japan's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 has driven its adoption of innovative technologies that cut carbon emissions and reduce waste.

Alongside boosting Luminy® PLA sales in Japan, NAGASE and TotalEnergies Corbion will team up on research and development to improve material properties and create new applications tailored to customer needs. This strategic partnership is designed to lessen environmental impact by cutting greenhouse gas emissions and advancing a sustainable, circular, and regenerative economy.

TotalEnergies Corbion’s Luminy® PLA is made from sustainably sourced sugarcane, which is renewed annually. With a carbon footprint that's 75% lower than traditional plastics, Luminy® PLA stands out with its diverse melting points, excellent heat resistance, strong mechanical properties, and appealing color options, including transparency. These qualities make it a versatile choice for various industries, from food packaging and clothing to durable goods like automotive interiors, hardware, and luxury casings.

NAGASE and TotalEnergies Corbion are joining forces to help reduce carbon footprints in Japan and globally. Given Japan's strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, it's an ideal market for Luminy® PLA. Leveraging Nagase's market expertise and TEC’s joint R&D efforts, the partnership is poised to drive the adoption of sustainable bioplastics in the country. This collaboration highlights their shared commitment to offering environmentally friendly materials that align with Japan's environmental goals.

TotalEnergies Corbion is also a strong advocate for chemical recycling to address the growing demand for PLA. This method helps promote sustainable material use by breaking down used PLA into its basic molecular components, which are then re-synthesized into new Luminy® PLA. The chemical recycling process, known as hydrolysis, is energy-efficient and produces rPLA that maintains the same food contact approval and qualities as virgin PLA. This approach minimizes environmental impact while ensuring the continued high performance of the material.

TotalEnergies Corbion leads the way in sustainable innovation with its Poly Lactic Acid (PLA), reducing carbon footprints and promoting circularity. Being biobased and compostable, their PLA not only lowers carbon emissions but also supports a circular economy through both mechanical and chemical recycling. This 50/50 joint venture between TotalEnergies and Corbion, headquartered in the Netherlands, operates a state-of-the-art PLA facility in Rayong, Thailand. By integrating PLA across various industries and collaborating throughout the supply chain, TotalEnergies Corbion is driving the widespread adoption of bioplastics, envisioning a future where it transforms industries and fosters a healthier planet.

Founded in Kyoto, Japan in 1832, NAGASE & CO., LTD. started as a chemical trading firm. The NAGASE Group initially made its mark by securing exclusive agreements to bring industry-leading products from around the globe to the Japanese market.