JGC Holdings Corporation has invested in Amicaterra Inc., a startup specializing in plant-based plastic alternatives, through its JGC MIRAI Innovation Fund, to promote sustainable material solutions amidst rising environmental concerns.

Target Information

This announcement pertains to a recent investment made by JGC Holdings Corporation, represented by Chairman and CEO Masayuki Sato, through the JGC MIRAI Innovation Fund, a corporate venture capital fund operated in collaboration with JGC Corporation, led by President and Representative Director Shoji Yamada. The investment was directed towards Amicaterra Inc., represented by Chairman Atsushi Masuda, a startup that specializes in the production of plant-based plastic alternative materials.

Amicaterra aims to address the significant environmental issue of plastic pollution impacting oceans and soil. Its primary product, modo-cell®, is a sustainable substitute for conventional plastics, utilizing cellulose derived from various plant fibers. This product is notable for being biodegradable in natural environments, incorporating underutilized resources such as bamboo from neglected forests and plant waste from food and beverage production.

Industry Overview in Japan

The plastic industry in Japan has faced increasing scrutiny due to its contributions to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions resulting from plastic waste incineration. Recen