Japan has launched its first airport-based bioenergy demonstration project using biodiesel produced from rice bran oil byproducts, marking a new step in expanding renewable fuel options and supporting decarbonisation of airport operations.
The initiative has been jointly introduced by Japan Airlines Co. Ltd., Showa Sangyo Co. Ltd., Boso Oil and Fat Co. Ltd., Phytochem Products Inc. and Tohoku University at Yamagata Airport, Biodiesel Magazine reported.
Under the project, biodiesel fuel (BDF) made from rice bran fatty acid, a non-edible byproduct generated during rice bran oil production, is being used to operate one of Japan Airlines’ airport ground support vehicles, specifically a baggage towing tractor.
The biodiesel has been produced by Boso Oil and Fat, part of the Showa Sangyo Group, through an upcycling process that converts rice bran oil byproducts into bioenergy for operational use.
The production process uses the “Ion Exchange Resin Method,” a technology developed by Tohoku University. According to the project partners, this is the world’s first use of biodiesel produced through this method in airport operations.
Yamagata Airport was selected as the demonstration site because its basin geography creates large seasonal temperature variations, allowing performance testing under different weather conditions. The airport’s proximity to Tohoku University also supports technical verification and evaluation of the technology.
The consortium said that as global demand for bioenergy and alternative fuels continues to rise, identifying new feedstock sources and broadening raw material options has become increasingly important to support long-term supply security.
Through the demonstration project, the participating organisations aim to accelerate the decarbonisation of airport activities while building a sustainable supply chain and creating practical pathways for wider use of biodiesel-based bioenergy derived from upcycled industrial byproducts.
The partners said the initiative also reflects efforts to apply advanced technology developed in the Tohoku region to create new industrial value and contribute to long-term carbon neutrality goals.
