IBJ Sells Paint-Degrading Bacteria to Tsuneishi Miho Shipbuilding ~ Tsuneishi Miho Shipbuilding Begins Recycling Waste Paint at Its Niigata Plant ~

The Inbound Japan Institute of Microbial Applications (a public interest incorporated foundation; located at 141-2 Ina, Akiruno City, Tokyo) has contributed to the resource recycling of waste paint by commercializing paint-degrading bacteria.

Tsuneishi Miho Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.’s Niigata Plant purchased the paint-degrading bacteria to treat waste paint generated during ship painting and began resource recovery operations on June 5, 2026.By mixing and agitating waste paint—which was previously incinerated as industrial waste—with these decomposing bacteria to break it down and recycle it, the company is reducing CO2 emissions associated with incineration and contributing to the realization of a decarbonized society.

"Details of Resource Recovery: The paint by-products will be utilized in agricultural production cycles as IBJ microbial culture soil."

■Background of Technology Development

Our resource recovery technology using paint-degrading bacteria began with joint research with Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in 2003, and nearly a quarter-century has passed since then.During this time, we have provided this technology to the automotive sector, including Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., as well as their painting contractors. However, due to growing demand from other paint and coating companies for the commercialization of paint-degrading bacteria, we have now launched sales of this product.A wide range of waste paints can be recycled, including water-based, solvent-based, and powder paints, as well as waste cleaning thinners and paint sludge. Small-scale painting contractors, in particular, have faced difficulties because disposal costs become prohibitively high for small quantities when treating such materials as industrial waste. Now, it is possible to recycle unused paint at a low cost.Furthermore, even small quantities of the resulting product are purchased as valuable materials by IBJ-designated businesses.

■ Characteristics of Paint-Degrading Bacteria

* We provide a stable supply of paint-degrading bacteria

Through years of research and practical application, our technology for controlling microorganisms is well-established, and we can increase production to meet demand.

・Manufacturing Center / IBJ Microbial Recycling Center (Hinode) ・IBJ Microbial Recycling Center (Yabuki)

* By moving away from industrial waste disposal and recycling waste paint as a resource, you can establish an SDGs-compliant business

By recycling unused paint, we achieve the “triple bottom line” of economic, social, and environmental benefits as defined by the SDGs.

* We can reduce costs compared to industrial waste disposal fees

We design and provide systems that keep costs lower than disposal fees for industrial waste.

* We can contribute to reducing CO2 emissions through decarbonization

Microbial decomposition and resource recovery are more effective at reducing CO2 emissions than incineration, thereby helping to combat global warming.

* We purchase waste paint by-products as valuable materials

The byproducts are purchased as resources by IBJ-designated contractors and commercialized into products such as microbial agents, microbial potting soil, deodorizing agents, and solid fuel, which are then distributed.

■Company Overview

Trade Name: Inbound Japan General Incorporated Foundation (Japanese Name: Inbound Japan)

Representative: Representative Director Fumihiro Kato

Address: 6F, 2-121 Shin-Matsudo, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture 270-0034

Established: February 2011

Business Activities: Comprehensive surveys, R&D support, and consulting services regarding

　　　　　 in the Asian region

　　　　　 ● R&D Support: Resource recovery of paints using petroleum-degrading bacteria

URL: http://www.ib-j.org

[Contact Information for the General Public Regarding This Matter]

Inbound Japan General Incorporated Foundation, Head Office Secretariat

TEL: 047-369-7154

FAX: 047-349-6112