Developing Fisheries Materials That Do Not Become Marine Litter by the Rengo Blue Action Team
EnvironmentOctober 20, 2025
With participation in the activities of the Blue Ocean Initiative (BOI) as a catalyst, Rengo formed the Rengo Blue Action Team and is taking on the challenge of developing fisheries materials that do not become marine litter through three specialized teams.
Cellulose Promotion Team
Biodegradable spherical cellulose particles (Viscoparl) serve as water purification materials for land-based aquaculture. By allowing microorganisms to adhere to Viscoparl, the frequency of water replacement in tanks is reduced. This contributes to the land-based aquaculture market, which is gaining attention amid declining fish catches and a decreasing number of fishers.
Fish Box Development Team
Corrugated fish boxes with water resistance and insulation performance are being developed as alternatives to expanded polystyrene. Demonstration experiments are currently underway in Japan, and efforts are also progressing toward the practical application of corrugated fish boxes for export, in response to overseas regulations on expanded polystyrene.
Fishing Gear Development and Seaweed Bed Restoration Team
Seed strings for seaweed cultivation that do not become marine litter are being developed using cellophane, a natural material derived from wood. Addressing the loss of seaweed beds due to rocky shore denudation and the decline in seaweed resources, the team is participating in seaweed cultivation experiments in coastal waters across Japan.
These initiatives were also introduced at the pavilion BLUE OCEAN DOME (ZERI JAPAN) at the 2025 World Exposition, Japan (Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai) site, held from April 13, 2025 to October 13, 2025. This served as an opportunity to raise awareness among a wide audience about the various marine issues facing the oceans, as well as to communicate Rengo's initiatives in addressing challenges related to the ocean and fisheries industry.
While efforts to pass on rich and abundant oceans to the next generation do not bear fruit all at once, Rengo will continue to collaborate with many companies through BOI, steadily implement continuous improvements, and work toward tangible results.
Crossing the Sea?! Fish Box Development Project ~RENGO BLUE ACTION Report Vol.02~
Rengo Ocean Forest Creation Project: Cellophane String Development ~RENGO BLUE ACTION Report Vol.03~