The First Circular Materials Symposium Was Held
On February 27, 2026, the Circular Materials Symposium was held under the auspices of the Circular Materials Research Center, Graduate School of Advanced Integrated Studies in Human Survivability, Kyoto University.
The symposium featured presentations from various perspectives on the circular use of materials, as well as the latest research and technological developments in the field. The event fostered active discussions among participants.
① 齋藤敬先生「サーキュラーマテリアルとは？」
Prof. Saito introduced the fundamental concepts of materials research within the framework of the circular economy and discussed recent research trends in the field.
講演② 樋口雅一先生「多孔性金属錯体（MOF）の商業化最新動向」
Prof. Higuchi presented the characteristics and potential applications of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), along with recent efforts toward their commercialization.
講演③ 関山健先生「脱炭素に向けた資源競争の地政学リスク」
Prof. Sekiyama discussed resource competition associated with the transition to a decarbonized society and the geopolitical risks arising from it.
講演④ 水谷好洋氏「プラスチック汚染対策とプラスチック資源循環に関する国内外の動向」
Mr. Mizutani introduced recent policy developments and initiatives in Japan and abroad regarding plastic pollution mitigation and the circular use of plastic resources.
Workshop
A workshop was conducted to explain the concepts of environmental impact assessment, with a particular focus on Life cycle assessment (LCA). Participants were also introduced to a new environmental assessment methodology currently under development at the Graduate School and had the opportunity to perform hands-on calculations. Following the exercise, participants exchanged ideas in small groups, deepening their understanding of the topic.
The symposium provided a valuable opportunity to explore circular materials from diverse perspectives through expert presentations and lively discussions. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all speakers and participants for their contributions and support.