Dec 17 2013
Kyocera Corporation announced that the company’s Kagoshima Sendai manufacturing plant (Kagoshima Prefecture) has received the 2013 Environment Minister’s Award for Global Warming Prevention Activity (implementation of countermeasures / dissemination category) in recognition of its environmental protection activities.
This is the fourth consecutive year that Kyocera has been a recipient, following the 2012 and 2011 awards received by the company’s plants in the implementation of countermeasures category, and the 2010 award for Kyocera’s high-output solar module in the technology development / product category.
A 158kW solar power generating system at the Kyocera Kagoshima Sendai Plant
The award was established in 1998 by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment. It is presented every year in December to coincide with Global Warming Prevention Month, and is given to individuals and groups that have shown remarkable achievements in the prevention of global warming. For this year’s award, Kyocera’s Kagoshima Sendai Plant was nominated by the local township. In addition to emission-reduction measures such as the use of exhaust heat from turbo refrigerators, implementation of heat shield coating on facility rooftops, and installation of a solar power generating system, the plant was recognized for community-based efforts such as offering “Eco-Lessons” at local schools and developing a partnership with the local authority on environmental programs.
This latest award marks the fourth year in a row for Kyocera, which was first awarded in 2010 for its high-power solar modules for domestic public and industrial use. Since starting R&D of solar energy in 1975, Kyocera has contributed to the development of renewable energy by enhancing the reliability and efficiency of solar modules, and supplying its products to markets all over the world.
In the following year, Kyocera received the 2011 award for inclusive work done by its two facilities in Shiga Prefecture to help combat climate change — including the development of a Solar Cycle Station at a municipal building, operation of environmental education facilities such as the Kyocera Shiga Green & Eco Garden, and implementation of forest upkeep and water purification experiments.
Furthermore, Kyocera's Fukushima Tanagura manufacturing plant (Fukushima Prefecture) was recognized in 2012 for its comprehensive environmental protection activities. In response to an increased need for energy conservation following the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 2011, the company further enhanced its activities at the plant, including the expansion of the solar power generating system, implementation of demand-control ventilation, and adoption of hybrid cars.
Kyocera was founded 54 years ago with a philosophy of “harmonious coexistence” and a commitment to social responsibility and environmental protection. This latest award adds to many others Kyocera has received worldwide, including its thirteenth consecutive annual recycling award from the city of San Diego, and third consecutive Industria Limpia (Clean Industry) Certification from the Mexican government. The company believes that fostering mutual understanding and awareness with the community is vital in addressing environmental issues and remains committed to local efforts.