Dole Japan Inc., a fruit processor and vendor, has found a creative solution to combat food waste by transforming rejected bananas into charcoal rather than letting them go to waste. The company, based in Tokyo, has expressed its goal to make banana-based fuel available for commercial usage, such as in barbecues and other leisure activities, as soon as possible, emphasizing the importance of reducing food loss in the process.
While consumers in Japan tend to avoid bananas with skin imperfections or bruises, Dole Japan is working towards utilizing these unsellable bananas through their Mottainai Banana Project, collaborating with producers and other entities to repurpose the fruit for drinks, confectionery, and now charcoal production. By repurposing approximately 900 tons of bananas in 2023 alone, the company has set ambitious targets to increase this number to 5,000 tons within a few years, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and efficiency in their operations. Additionally, Dole Japan's initiative to commercialize banana charcoal not only addresses food waste but also aligns with existing practices in the Philippines, where burnt bananas are already used for soil enhancement.
The utilization of banana charcoal presents multiple benefits beyond waste reduction, including its quick ignition properties and uses for humidity control and deodorization, showcasing the versatile nature of this innovative product. Dole Japan's affiliation with trading house Itochu Corp. since its establishment in 2013 has played a significant role in shaping its operations and sustainability initiatives, with the company's commitment to repurposing bananas highlighting a proactive approach towards reducing environmental impact and promoting efficient resource utilization.