Bandai Namco plans to adopt bags made from 100% domestically produced Japanese biomass plastic at its amusement facilities across Japan starting January 2027, aiming to reduce annual CO2 emissions by approximately 211 tons. According to information released by Bandai Namco Experience Co. and partners such as Mitsui Chemicals, these bags will be used as "prize bags" distributed at amusement facilities—specifically, the packaging bags used when players win prizes from claw machines and similar devices—rather than general shopping bags.
This initiative involves adjustments to the packaging materials used in amusement facilities. Confirmed details include the implementation timeline, scope of application, material composition, and emission reduction targets. The primary material for the bags is biomass polyethylene produced via a mass balance approach, with 100% allocation of biomass characteristics. The raw materials are derived from renewable resources such as plant-based waste. Additives and inks are not included in this ratio. Mitsui Chemicals is responsible for biomass ethylene production, Prime Polymer handles biomass polyethylene manufacturing, and Kojima Masado Honpo manages bag molding and processing.
Available information also clarifies the specific differences between the original and new materials: previously, petroleum-derived polyethylene was used. The new bags achieve over 15% film thinning compared to traditional products while maintaining functionality and strength. The combination of biomass material substitution and film thinning to reduce plastic usage forms the basis for the estimated annual reduction of approximately 211 tons of CO2 emissions. However, the baseline year and detailed calculation methods for this emission reduction target are not explicitly listed in the public announcements and await further clarification.
Bandai Namco positions this initiative as part of a dual-axis strategy focusing on "decarbonization" and "stable procurement." In addition to environmental considerations, shifting from petroleum naphtha to decentralized renewable resources helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and diversify raw material sourcing channels. This transition will be rolled out sequentially across amusement facilities nationwide starting January 2027, rather than completing all replacements on a single day.