In a significant stride towards sustainability, Toray Carbon Fibers Europe, the French subsidiary of Japan’s industrial giant Toray Industries, has proudly announced the attainment of ISCC PLUS certification for its production facilities in Lacq and Abidos, located in the picturesque south-western region of France.
The coveted International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS accreditation not only underscores Toray’s commitment to environmental responsibility but also positions the company as a trailblazer in fostering a circular economy. The certification empowers Toray to judiciously allocate biomass or recycled materials using the mass balance approach, thereby revolutionizing the production and supply of carbon fiber.
The mass balance approach, a cornerstone of ISCC PLUS, meticulously tracks the incorporation of circular and bio-based materials throughout the value chain. This groundbreaking method ensures complete traceability and transparency, assuring consumers that the raw materials utilized meet stringent sustainability standards.
Toray Carbon Fibers Europe is set to usher in a new era of eco-friendly manufacturing, with plans to commence the production of carbon fiber derived from biomass and recycled raw materials by the conclusion of 2023. This move aligns seamlessly with the company’s vision to enhance product life cycle assessments (LCAs) and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
The ISCC PLUS certification, a voluntary program applicable to diverse sectors including food, feed, chemicals, plastics, packaging, and textiles, serves as a testament to Toray’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The certification not only ensures the responsible sourcing of raw materials but also positions Toray as a frontrunner in meeting the rising global demand for sustainable practices across industries.
Looking ahead, Toray’s Ehime Plant in Japan aims to mirror this achievement by securing ISCC PLUS certification by March 2024, with the goal of initiating fiber production later that year. Similarly, Toray Composite Materials America’s plant in Decatur, Alabama, is slated to obtain certification in 2024, responding to heightened interest from customers committed to carbon neutrality.
Toray anticipates a surge in demand for its sustainable carbon fiber, with initial offerings targeting industrial applications in the automotive and handheld device sectors. Starting from the end of 2023, Toray plans to extend its sustainable solutions to other sectors, including aerospace and sports, as part of its holistic approach to fostering a greener and more sustainable future.
As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, Toray Carbon Fibers Europe’s pioneering steps underscore the pivotal role that industry leaders can play in reshaping our collective future. With sustainability at the forefront of its endeavors, Toray sets a precedent for responsible manufacturing practices and reaffirms its commitment to driving positive change on a global scale.