they have different definitions of "recycling" and "zero waste" in
Japan it would appear.
February 26, 2008
Panasonic Uses Catalytic
Reaction to Decompose Plastics Into Harmless Gas for E-Waste Recycling
Osaka,
Japan—26 February 2008—Panasonic, by which Matsushita Electric
Industrial Co., Ltd. is known, today announced that the company has
developed together with Kusatsu Electric Co., Ltd. a recycling
technology that enables the recovery of metals from plastic-coated
wires and plastics used in electric and electronic equipment without
causing hazardous side-effects. Using the catalytic properties of
titanium oxide (TiO2), the innovative technology facilitates recovery
of inorganic substances such as metals by transforming organic
substances such as plastics into harmless gases.
Panasonic
is successfully using the new technology at the Matsushita Eco
Technology Center (METEC) to recover copper from degaussing coils
covered with vinyl chloride tape found in CRT TVs.
In addition, mixed plastic waste destined for incineration or landfill
is treated and changed into non-toxic gases at METEC.
The method not only contributes to “zero waste,” but also helps reduce CO2 emissions as little external energy source is
required in the gasification process.
full artile at -- http://www.japancorp.net/Article.Asp?Art_ID=17099