Wedoany.com Report-Feb 27, Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) has successfully conducted a demonstration operation of its cupola melting furnace, replacing fossil fuels with bio-coal briquettes derived from coconut shells. This 100% biomass fuel operation marks a significant milestone as Mazda explores pathways toward carbon neutrality (CN) in its production processes. The company aims to expand its regional cooperation and promote energy circulation schemes, particularly focusing on achieving CN by fiscal year 2030 through the use of locally sourced biomass fuels like bio-coal briquettes.

To achieve CN at its global plants by 2035, Mazda has been implementing initiatives across three pillars: energy conservation, transitioning to renewable energy, and introducing CN fuels. By 2050, the goal is to ensure CN throughout its entire supply chain. A key aspect of this effort is stable domestic raw material procurement, which is critical for fully transitioning to biomass fuels. Mazda has established the Cupola CN Co-creation Working Group to explore research and development for shifting to biomass fuels, establishing production methods, and ensuring local raw material procurement.

This initiative includes collecting spent coffee bean husks from Mazda Headquarters and Tully's Coffee Shop, demonstrating the feasibility of producing bio-coal briquettes from waste. Moving forward, Mazda will work with local communities to develop a local production-to-consumption energy circulation scheme, fostering collaboration among industry, government, academia, and the private sector. This effort aligns with Mazda's long-term goal of achieving CN by 2050, contributing to a more prosperous society.