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- Trees of Tokyo: Reclaimed wood made from Tama wood, “PLUSWOOD TM”
Trees of Tokyo: Reclaimed wood made from Tama wood, “PLUSWOOD TM”
Life
Technological Innovation
Partnership
In addition to our “PLUSWOOD” series, which utilizes reclaimed wood from Fukui Prefecture, we are excited to introduce “PLUSWOOD TM” made from "Trees of Tokyo: Tama Wood." This new offering features wood sourced from the Tama region of Tokyo and is certified by the Tama Timber Certification Council. The raw material consists of thinned wood from Tama-grown lumber, which is otherwise not utilized in construction. This wood is ground into powder, mixed with resin, and molded into our products. By incorporating this wood, we help sequester carbon dioxide, furthering our commitment to carbon neutrality.
Origin of "TM"
The name "TM" comes from the materials produced in Tokyo Mori (Tokyo Forest) and TaMa (Tama).
Person in charge comments
Utilizing the diverse technologies we have cultivated over the years, we will continue to work toward the realization of a sustainable society.
Why did you focus on trees in Tokyo?
While working on the design and sales of “PLUSWOOD” at the Tokyo branch, I thought it would be possible to do work that specializes in Tokyo, Japan's largest consumer area. Therefore, I came up with the idea of using wood from Tokyo (Tama), and after getting information from the Tama Wood Information Center, I was able to begin development. We have now grown to the point where we receive requests from the Tokyo Metropolitan Forestry Division to exhibit at exhibitions.
What were some of the challenges and difficulties in launching "PLUSWOOD TM"?
It was necessary to change the blending ratio of resin and wood powder from the conventional blend that uses wood from Fukui Prefecture, and we repeated many trial productions while coordinating with other departments such as manufacturing, development, and sales. We were able to successfully commercialize the product thanks to the proactive and prompt assistance of our supplier and partner, a timber cooperative in Tokyo.
Where did you feel a sense of accomplishment?
Through various PR activities, we have recently felt that the recognition of “PLUSWOOD TM” as a new way to use Tama wood has increased. We will continue to spread the meaning of “PLUSWOOD”, which is “reducing CO₂ by using domestically produced wood powder”, and aim to have “PLUSWOOD”, which is recycled wood, recognized as wood.
Please tell us the appeal points of “PLUSWOOD TM”.
The introduction of “PLUSWOOD TM” supports the sustainable management of cedar forests in the Tama region by encouraging both the felling and replanting of these trees. This initiative contributes to forest recycling efforts. Additionally, "PLUSWOOD TM" utilizes low-pollen cedar varieties during replanting, aligning with the "Pollen-Free Forest Growing Campaign" to reduce pollen levels. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has expressed strong support for "PLUSWOOD TM," recognizing its potential to benefit both the future of Tokyo and the environment.