Toyoda Gosei, a leading automotive parts manufacturer, announced on October 18 that it plans to significantly expand its rubber recycling capabilities. The company will double the capacity of its Morimachi Plant in central Japan, aiming to accelerate the recycling of rubber waste from automobiles. The project is expected to generate double its current capacity to 1,200 tonnes annually from FY 2025.

The new recycling line incorporates improved technology to enhance the quality of recycled rubber, allowing for a higher percentage of recycled material to be used in new products. This will enable Toyoda Gosei to recycle nearly all the rubber waste generated from opening trim weatherstrips produced at the Morimachi Plant.

Toyoda Gosei manufactures and recycles synthetic rubbers that is specifically used in automotive parts. The plant recycled rubber will be used in weatherstrips and in other products made from the same type of synthetic rubber (ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM). Toyoda Gosei is also exploring the recycling of natural rubber and aims to establish a comprehensive system for recovering rubber from end-of-life vehicles.

While recycling of materials like steel and plastic has made significant strides in the automotive industry, rubber recycling has lagged behind due to its complex nature. Most rubber waste ends up being incinerated. Toyoda Gosei, however, has been making headway with its proprietary devulcanization technology, which can turn rubber waste into high-quality raw materials.

By collaborating with automakers and other industry players, Toyoda Gosei hopes to lead the way in rubber recycling and contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy.

Toyoda Gosei Co. Ltd. is a Japanese company that manufactures synthetic rubber and plastics products. The company is headquartered in Nagoya, Japan and operates in over 16 countries and regions. The company’s products are used in a variety of applications, including automotive, electronics, and construction. Their main categories include weatherstrips, which are rubber seals designed for vehicle doors and windows to ensure insulation and noise reduction. They also produce various interior components, such as dashboard elements, consoles, and trim pieces that enhance both aesthetics and functionality. Additionally, the company manufactures functional parts like gaskets, hoses, and vibration-damping materials, alongside electronic components, including sensor housings and connectors that support vehicle electronics. Toyoda Gosei also specializes in injection-molded plastic parts for various automotive applications. Throughout their product development, the company emphasizes the use of eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices, reflecting their commitment to environmental responsibility.