Underutilized biomass generated from agriculture and food processing presents both an environmental challenge and a valuable opportunity for resource recycling and decarbonization. In Southeast Asia, increasing volumes of agricultural residues and oil palm biomass have contributed to greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution through disposal and burning. JIRCAS has demonstrated biomass utilization technologies based on microbial saccharification and multi-feedstock processing in Japan and Malaysia, with some technologies already being adopted. However, further advances are required to expand feedstock diversity, integrate multi-stage resource conversion systems, quantify benefits, and strengthen institutional frameworks.

This project establishes multi-stage biomass conversion technologies centered on microbial saccharification to transform underutilized biomass into fuels, materials, and functional products that support decarbonization and circular agriculture. It promotes diversification of feedstocks, including non-palm biomass, clarifies operational and quality requirements, supports technology adoption by industry, and develops implementation packages for international deployment.

• Development of next-generation biomass valorization technologies
• Integrated development and demonstration of GX-oriented biomass upcycling technologies
• Development of integrated adaptation, institutional, and environmental models for international deployment and implementation

Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan, China, Ghana, and Nigeria

KOSUGI Akihiko (Biological Resources and Post-harvest Division)