Toyo Glass has started operation of an oxygen combustion furnace for glass bottles at its Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan, facility.
It said the method will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% compared to conventional methods, and will maintain the same production volume.
According to the company, it is the first such system in a glass bottle melting furnace with a production capacity of more than 200 tons/day in Japan.
The oxygen combustion method uses a high-concentration of oxygen instead of air.
By using this method, combustion without nitrogen becomes possible, improving heat transfer efficiency to the glass.
It also eliminates the need for a heat storage chamber that uses a large amount of heat storage bricks.
The company said: "We will promote environmentally friendly manufacturing from both the perspectives of decarbonisation of the manufacturing process through optimisation of energy efficiency and resource conservation through streamlining equipment.
"In addition, we will pursue the reduction of environmental impact throughout the entire product lifecycle and deliver valuable containers that contribute to our customers' decarbonisation management."
The introduction of the oxygen combustion system was launched in May 2024 as an important measure to contribute to energy conservation and the realisation of a decarbonized society.
It has commenced operation after approximately two years of preparation and construction.
It added: "We hope this initiative will serve as a model case for driving decarbonisation in the glass bottle industry.
"Furthermore, starting with the full-scale operation of this oxygen combustion method, Toyo Glass will continue to promote the introduction of the latest technologies and strive to reduce its environmental impact through a multifaceted approach.
"In order to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society, we will work together with our customers, suppliers, and local communities to provide more environmentally friendly glass bottles and innovate our manufacturing processes."
The furnace launched on March 31, 2026.
