The Denka Group is proactively developing and providing innovative solutions designed to help reduce the many negative impacts of plastic waste on the global environment and the efficient utilization of such waste. To this end, we take full advantage of our strengths backed by an integrated manufacturing system that encompasses processes ranging from the production of synthetic resins and polymer processing to molding as well as our product development capabilities. In addition, as a participant in the Clean Ocean Material Alliance (CLOMA), ^* we collaborate in activities across the industrial sector.

• * An alliance founded in 2019 to accelerate innovation through collaboration among a variety of corporations with the aim of preventing marine pollution attributable to the emission of plastic waste

Our response to the Act on Promotion of Resource Circulation for Plastics

With the problems of marine plastic litter, climate change, and the tightening of waste import regulations in other countries, the importance of promoting the recycling of plastic-related resources in Japan has increased. The Law on the Concern of Japan was promulgated in June 2021 and came into effect on April 1, 2022.

Responding to the Design Guidelines for Plastic Products

1. We will promote the marketing of products with reduced weight.
2. We will promote the marketing of products that use bioplastics.

• * We will continue to respond to customer needs and research and develop seed products in accordance with this law, and promote the launch of products that take into consideration the design guidelines for plastic products.

Voluntary collection and recycling business of used plastic by manufacturers and distributors, etc.

1. We will promote the chemical recycling business.

• * We have started preparations in FY2021 for the operation of the chemical recycling plant with plans to commence operations in the second half of FY2023.

Targets and plans for reducing and recycling industrial waste, etc. from products using plastic

1. We will continue to promote the conversion of waste into valuable resources as a means of curb emissions.
2. We will continue to promote recycling and heat recovery for resource recovery.
3. We will continue to achieve zero emissions by promoting the reduction of final disposal volume (landfill).

Other measures

1. Education and training are provided to employees regarding emission control and recycling.
2. We clarify the management department and responsible person for each business site, appropriately understand the status of emission control, recycling, etc., and manage the records.

Resource Recycling and Chemical Recycling

Eco-Friendly Food Containers

Denka Polymer Kabushiki Kaisha, a subsidiary specializing in the manufacture and sale of plastic-based food containers, is promoting the development of eco-friendly containers. These include PLAPS, a food container material comprising a combination of polylactic acid (PLA)—a plastic material derived from starch and other plant products—and polystyrene, as well as CLEALEAD, a new BOPS sheet that is 35% lighter than the usual one made with amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (A-PET).