Consumer Cooperative Society Kagoshima starts operation of biodiesel fuel
2024.06.12
Consumer Cooperative Society Kagoshima*, completed its own plant for recycling used cooking oil into biodiesel fuel (BDF) at the end of 2023. The co-op collects used cooking oil brought in by co-op members and from store delicatessens, refines it into BDF at this plant, and uses it as fuel for delivery vehicles. The use of this fuel helps to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
This is one of the initiatives to advance the SDGs in a more concrete manner, with the major goals being the achievement of the co-op's uniquely defined greenhouse gas reduction plan and the establishment of a regional recycling system.
As a demonstration test prior to full implementation, deliveries were conducted for one year using a 30% concentration BDF with a total of four trucks. Driving data, fuel filters, and oil samples were submitted to government agencies. The test was concluded without any issues, and operations using 100% BDF has begun. Currently, 16 trucks are in operation, with plans to increase this number in the future.
In conjunction with the start of operations, learning sessions for staff and co-op members have also been held. Positive feedback has been shared by participants, such as, "I'm glad to learn that used cooking oil can be turned into such clean fuel," and "I want to cooperate in recycling waste cooking oil to help prevent global warming".
*Consumer Cooperative Society Kagoshima, a consumer co-op with 338,962 members (as of FY2022), primarily engages in home delivery, store operations, insurance, and welfare services in Kagoshima Prefecture, located in the Kyushu region of Japan.
Recycling plant Recycling plant (interior)
This is one of the initiatives to advance the SDGs in a more concrete manner, with the major goals being the achievement of the co-op's uniquely defined greenhouse gas reduction plan and the establishment of a regional recycling system.
As a demonstration test prior to full implementation, deliveries were conducted for one year using a 30% concentration BDF with a total of four trucks. Driving data, fuel filters, and oil samples were submitted to government agencies. The test was concluded without any issues, and operations using 100% BDF has begun. Currently, 16 trucks are in operation, with plans to increase this number in the future.
In conjunction with the start of operations, learning sessions for staff and co-op members have also been held. Positive feedback has been shared by participants, such as, "I'm glad to learn that used cooking oil can be turned into such clean fuel," and "I want to cooperate in recycling waste cooking oil to help prevent global warming".
The one on the far right (④) is purified biodiesel fuel.
From left to right, used tempura oil, after adding chemicals and stirring,
then left to stand for 30 minutes, and subsequent removal of impurities.
▼Video on the Process from Waste Cooking Oil Collection to Fuel Usage (in Japanese)
*Consumer Cooperative Society Kagoshima, a consumer co-op with 338,962 members (as of FY2022), primarily engages in home delivery, store operations, insurance, and welfare services in Kagoshima Prefecture, located in the Kyushu region of Japan.
