Exhibitor Information

1) TEAM Re:ism – A Cross-Industry Alliance for Net Recycling
TEAM Re:ism is a corporate alliance dedicated to the circular use of fishing nets. It was launched in 2020 by five volunteer companies specializing in synthetic fibers, net manufacturing, and plastics. As of September 2025, the team has grown to include 47 organizations, companies, and municipalities.
Japan’s purse seine nets have evolved uniquely to adapt to complex ocean currents. Two key features distinguish them:
1. In addition to nylon, high-density polyester is used.
2. Knotless nets (mukessetsu-ami) are employed, which offer superior fiber strength utilization and high durability in all directions.
Compared to overseas purse seine nets, Japanese nets generate less waste upon disposal—demonstrating strong reduction performance.
However, recycling polyester-based fishing nets presents several challenges:
• Greater technical difficulty and higher costs compared to nylon.
• Lack of established methods for removing contaminants.
• No existing market for recycled polyester resin from fishing nets.
To overcome these issues, TEAM Re:ism was formed as an open alliance—transcending industry boundaries—to establish effective contaminant removal techniques and a full circular system including downstream strategies.
With growing participation each year, the team has made steady progress in technological development. In 2022, they successfully established new contaminant removal and specialized cleaning methods.
In 2023, with support from Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, a net-washing machine was installed at the Tachiura Fishery Cooperative in Nagasaki Prefecture, marking the start of full-scale recycling trials.
(2) Marine and Shoreline Environmental Beautification & Oil Pollution Response Organization (Public Interest Incorporated Foundation)
This organization promotes the beautification of marine and shoreline environments, the protection of fishery resources, and the conservation and development of coastal ecosystems.
Its mission is to preserve, maintain, and utilize “blue, abundant seas and beautiful beaches,” while preventing the spread of oil pollution from ships, factories, and other sources. It also supports the cleanup of fishing grounds and provides relief for fisheries damaged by unknown polluters.
By offering swift support to affected fishers and protecting fishing grounds, the organization contributes to public welfare, stabilizes fishery operations, and fosters the growth of Japan’s fisheries industry.
To ensure clean seas for future generations, the organization supports nationwide efforts by fishers, citizens, and volunteers. It also engages in outreach and education to raise awareness about the importance of marine and shoreline conservation.
In addition, it provides financial relief for fishery damage caused by oil pollution, reimburses cleanup costs incurred by fishers, and conducts research and countermeasures to prevent oil contamination.