Kyoto University, in collaboration with several companies, is embarking on a groundbreaking project to launch the world's first wooden satellite. This innovative satellite will be constructed using traditional Japanese carpentry techniques and is scheduled for launch from the United States in March 2024. The project involves the participation of Kuroda Kobo, a woodworking company based in Otsu, renowned for its expertise in restoring cultural assets and national treasures. Currently, the team at Kuroda Kobo is diligently working on constructing a 10-centimeter square cube (0.61 in³), with the goal of completing it by the end of the month. The construction process demands exceptional precision, as the margin of error for this component is a mere 0.01 millimeters (0.001 cm). Hiroaki Usui, the President of Kuroda Kobo, emphasized the importance of ensuring the satellite's durability to withstand the harsh conditions of space. He explained, "We need to make sure it's t...

Cosmetics manufacturers in Japan are ramping up their efforts to reduce plastic usage, responding to growing consumer concerns about plastic waste. Kao Corp., a major household goods maker, initiated a demonstration experiment in February to collect used containers of skincare products like toners and lotions for recycling into bottles. The trial, scheduled to run until the end of July, involves 36 sales outlets, including those operated by Aeon Co. in the Kanto region of eastern Japan. The collected containers, from brands like Twany and other Kao cosmetics, will be converted into materials for producing recycled bottles using Jeplan Inc.'s innovative recycling technology. Kao aims to expand the collection program to more outlets in the future. Fancl Corp., another cosmetics manufacturer, has also increased the number of stores that collect used containers for recycling. Currently, 61 stores, including those in the Tokyo metropolitan area, accept used containers to be repurposed...

Attention to those who have been affected by the nuclear power plant accident announced by Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. (TEPCO). TEPCO has recently announced additional compensation for nuclear damage compensation in response to the decision by the Nuclear Damage Compensation Dispute Review Board to the "Fifth Supplement to the Interim Guidelines for Determining the Scope of Nuclear Damage Caused by the Fukushima Daiichi and Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accidents of Tokyo Electric Power Company (Revision of Guidelines Based on Final Judgments in Class Action Lawsuits)." If you have been affected and wish to claim compensation, it is important to note that the city cannot handle requests for compensation and other procedures. Claims cannot be made on the spot, and you will need to follow the steps below to make a claim: 1.     Confirm your current address and household composition. 2.     Receive an invoice from TEPCO. 3.   ...