A reporter from Yomiuri Shimbun visited the AC Biode lab in Kyoto to interview the CEO, Tadashi Kubo about the power of innovation to drive positive change — even in the most challenging times. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, we apply our world-class technology to support the country’s economic recovery and sustainable future once peace is restored.
He explains: “When AC Biode was founded in 2019, one of our early ambitions was to collaborate on projects utilizing Ukraine’s abundant agricultural residues. Unfortunately, the Russian military invasion halted these plans just as contracts were about to be finalized.”
Despite the uncertainty, Mr. Kubo and the team remain hopeful. The newspaper article explains that we continue to monitor the evolving peace negotiations closely, including recent high-level talks in Turkey and diplomatic engagements involving international leaders. We believe that peace will eventually come, and when it does, AC Biode is prepared to contribute meaningfully to Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Innovative Technologies for Sustainable Recovery
Our novel technology, Plastalyst, uses chemical catalysts to recycle plastic waste at low temperatures — around 200°C — significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. This expertise in sustainable chemical processes is directly applicable to Ukraine’s needs.
In February 2024, AC Biode joined the Japan-Ukraine Economic Reconstruction Promotion Council as one of the Japanese companies committed to supporting Ukraine’s recovery. We signed a memorandum of understanding with Ukraine’s Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food focused on two key initiatives using technologies that are already developed:
- Agricultural Waste Recycling: Ukraine aims to decentralize its power supply for enhanced security, moving away from reliance on large power plants. Our technology can convert the vast amounts of agricultural residues into renewable energy, supporting distributed power generation and contributing to energy resilience.
- Instant Houses for Temporary Housing: Developed by Professor Keisuke Kitagawa of Nagoya Institute of Technology, these “instant houses” offer better insulation than tents and can be assembled within hours. They provide a quicker, more affordable alternative to traditional temporary housing — ideal for displaced farmers facing long commutes due to damaged homes and farmland. Once no longer needed, the houses’ materials can be chemically recycled into energy, closing the sustainability loop.
A Global, Diverse Team Ready to Act
AC Biode’s strength lies not only in technology but also in our international, multidisciplinary team. Founded by Kubo and CTO Atsushi Mizusawa — a former Kyoto University researcher — the company has offices in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Luxembourg. Our 30-strong team includes professionals from Germany, India, Indonesia, and beyond, reflecting our global outlook and collaborative spirit.
Looking Ahead
While the path to peace remains complex, we are confident that renewed diplomatic efforts signal a turning point. Kubo emphasizes, “We are ready to begin discussions immediately if requested by the Ukrainian government, not only in agriculture but also in energy and environmental sectors.”
At AC Biode, we are committed to leveraging our innovative technologies and global expertise to support Ukraine’s sustainable reconstruction and to help build a resilient, greener future.
Read the full article in Japanese here:
https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/local/kyoto/news/20250522-OYTNT50208/
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