Establishment of a Recycling-based Society
To make effective use of limited resources, the Tokai Rika Group is promoting the cyclical use of various resources such as resins and metals used in the production of products. In addition, as the use of water is indispensable in production activities, we are working to reduce the impact on the discharge destination by reducing the amount used and thoroughly controlling the water quality.
Effective Use of Resources
We are making products that contribute to the formation of a recycling-based society by improving the ease of dismantling of products and promoting the use of recycled materials.
Collection of resin offcuts in cooperation with suppliers
We have launched a PJT that utilizes resin waste materials and are strengthening our in-process recycling efforts. In addition, we will build a resource recycling system in our supply chain, including suppliers, and use the amount that cannot be consumed in the process for painting jigs; and we will expand its use as product materials in the future.
Upcycling of the edge loss of seatbelts
In the plating process, part of the waste water is treated in the ion exchange tower and then reused in the process. We also reuse the concentrated waste water, produced in the pure water manufacturing process, needed for removing the smallest particles of dirt in the semiconductor manufacturing process and some pure water used in dirt removal, to reduce the water consumption and amount of waste water.
Reduction of Waste Discharge
We are working on reducing the discharge of waste materials and using resources efficiently by improving production yield, reducing the rate of defects, and thoroughly implementing the 3Rs.
Reduction of waste in the molding process
In injection molding machines, purging* is performed when switching materials. By optimizing purging conditions such as injection speed and screw rotation speed, and reviewing the number of purging times for each material color, we have reduced resin waste generated when switching materials by 44%.
Reduction of Packaging Material
In order to reduce the amount of materials used for product packaging, we are working to improve packaging and make packaging materials returnable. Although we did not achieve the target in FY 2021, we aim to achieve it by FY 2022 according to the recovery plan.
Reduction of packaging material in logistics
In order to reduce the environmental load in logistics, we are pro-actively promoting initiatives to reduce the usage of packaging materials.
by changing the central part of the cardboard box used for packing the connector to a reinforced lightweight type, the weight per box has been reduced by 10%.
Reduction of single-use plastic
We are participating in the ‘‘Eyecity Eco Project’’, an effort to collect empty disposable contact lens cases conducted by the Eye Care Company of HOYA Corporation. This project not only contributes to environmental conservation through recycling, but also supports the independence and employment of people with disabilities and contributes to the Japan Eye Bank Association. We called on employees to participate at all our domestic plants, and have so far collected 30.47 kg (approximately 30,470 empty cases).
Reduction of Water Usage
We are working to reduce water usage by assessing water risks based on rainfall and water intake at each production site, and by improving water usage efficiency and reusing water.
Reuse of water in the manufacturing process
In the plating process, part of the waste water is treated in the ion exchange tower and then reused in the process. We also reuse the concentrated waste water, produced in the pure water manufacturing process, needed for removing the smallest particles of dirt in the semiconductor manufacturing process and some pure water used in dirt removal, to reduce the water consumption and amount of waste water.