Morisora Biorefinery LLC
Background
Background of the Project MORISORA
Transforming the power of the forest into the power of flight.
While Japan's forest resources are increasing, the number of aging trees is also growing, leading to a slowdown in carbon sequestration. This has created a situation where the true "power of forests" is not being fully utilized. Project MORISORA aims to promote forest circulation by effectively utilizing sustainable domestic timber.
For Japan, which relies heavily on imports for its energy, creating a system of local production for local consumption using domestic resources is crucial. Japan is rich in forest resources. In this context, bio-manufacturing technologies that utilize forest resources are gaining attention, as seen in the formulation of the Bioeconomy Strategy. By connecting production, supply, and utilization through a domestic supply chain, we aim to contribute to the revitalization of regional economies and job creation, while also striving for a sustainable society from the perspective of resource security.
To decarbonize the aviation sector, the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is advancing. As technological development progresses to utilize ethanol as a feedstock for SAF, Project MORISORA aims to supply non-edible bioethanol derived from domestic timber, transforming the "power of forests into the power of flight." Through the establishment of a domestic supply chain, we will strive to balance stable supply with environmental value, contributing to the creation of a sustainable future.
The Project MORISORA will address these issues.
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Features
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Full utilization of timber through cascading use
We play a part in the "cascading use of timber" by utilizing offcuts and sawmill residues generated primarily during the manufacturing of building materials from softwood logs. By using resources to the very end, we achieve both the effective utilization of forest resources and the reduction of environmental impact.
Regional revitalization through local production for local consumption
Beyond simply utilizing timber, we will promote collaboration with "Elite Trees" for reforestation after use. These trees grow faster than conventional species, sequester over 1.5 times more CO2, and produce less than half the pollen. By doing so, we will improve the efficiency of forestry management and create a cycle of resources and value, thereby supporting regional revitalization and sustainable decarbonization from the local level.
The power of the paper and pulp industry ×
Integration of bio-manufacturing technologies
We will accelerate the implementation of biorefineries by combining the large-scale production capabilities cultivated by the paper industry—such as timber procurement, collection, pulping, manufacturing, and quality control—with the bio-manufacturing technologies of bio-ventures. By utilizing woody resources in a multifaceted manner, including the use of black liquor generated during the manufacturing process, we will advance bio-manufacturing with Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) perspectives in mind.
From Forest Bioethanol
From Domestic Wood to Domestic Bioethanol
A key feature of Project MORISORA's "purely domestic bioethanol" is that it is a low Carbon Intensity (CI), non-edible biomass-derived bioethanol (E2G) made from wood chips in the Tohoku region.
By using locally produced wood chips, we reduce CO2 emissions generated during transportation.
Furthermore, by utilizing carbon-neutral energy derived from lignin, a component of woody biomass, we significantly reduce fossil-derived CO2 emissions and contribute to the realization of a sustainable decarbonized society.
The produced ethanol is planned to be widely utilized not only for SAF but also for direct gasoline blending, fuel cells, cosmetics, and as a raw material for chemicals.
Morisora Project PV
Project
About Morisora Biorefinery LLC
Project MORISORA: "From Forest to Sky" — Transforming the power of forests into the power of flight. Starting with domestic timber, we aim to supply 100% domestically produced, non-edible bioethanol, a key raw material for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
In Japan, the aging of trees is a growing issue, as mature forests experience a decline in their ability to sequester CO2. By properly utilizing these woody resources and creating a cycle of reforestation and forest management, this project aims to maintain forest health, support local employment and industries, and ultimately contribute to a decarbonized society.
Through the sustainable circulation of forest resources and the establishment of a domestic supply chain, Project MORISORA is committed to advancing decarbonization, revitalizing local communities, and shaping a sustainable future. To drive this project forward, we have established Morisora Biorefinery LLC.
Schedule
Schedule
Project MORISORA aims to commence operations of a semi-commercial plant in Iwanuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, in FY2026. Leveraging the insights gained from this semi-commercial plant, we will advance along our roadmap toward social implementation, aiming to start operations of a commercial plant capable of supplying tens of thousands of kiloliters by FY2030.