Zero's new venture sees partnership with JGC Japan unveiled
Partnership Between Tozero and JGC Japan to Boost Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling in Japan
A significant partnership between Tozero and JGC Japan Corporation is underway, with the aim of establishing lithium-ion battery recycling operations in Japan. The collaboration, announced in July 2025, is a significant step towards commercializing battery recycling technology in the country [1].
Tozero, a company known for its proprietary technology for the sustainable recovery of critical raw materials such as lithium and graphite, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JGC Japan to scale up lithium recycling technology in Japan [1]. This partnership forms part of Tozero’s broader strategy to expand its lithium recycling capabilities globally [1][3].
The partnership is not limited to Japan. Tozero is simultaneously scaling its recycling technology in Europe, with a demonstration plant under development in Gendorf, Germany [1]. This collaboration leverages Tozero’s innovative recycling technology and JGC Japan’s local expertise to facilitate the establishment of battery recycling infrastructure. The goal is to contribute to circular economy goals and reduce dependency on raw lithium sourcing.
JGC Japan Corporation, with its global reach and deep technical expertise, is well-positioned to help Tozero realize their vision of zero waste from lithium-ion batteries. The company complements this expertise with decades of experience in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of large-scale industrial projects [2].
The Japanese lithium-ion battery sector is supported by strong government investment and international industry players. The sector is considered pioneering, and the country's electric car industry, while still in its early stages compared to other regions, has significant potential [4]. Battery recycling is gaining importance in Japan, with new facilities being built to recover valuable raw materials and strengthen supply chain security.
The partnership between Tozero and JGC Japan aims to strengthen the stability of the supply chain for critical battery materials. The goal is to establish a long-term cooperation in the field of battery recycling, with plans to construct a hydrometallurgical recycling plant in Japan [3]. The strategic partnership is active and focused on commercializing lithium-ion battery recycling technology in Japan with near-term plans to establish operational facilities supported by their recent MoU [1].
Additional details beyond the MoU and demonstration plant development have not been publicly disclosed as of mid-2025. However, the collaboration between Tozero and JGC Japan aims to expand their activities globally in the long term.
References:
[1] Tozero and JGC Japan Corporation Sign MoU for Lithium Recycling in Japan. (2025, July). Retrieved from [https://www.tozero.com/news/tozero-and-jgc-japan-corporation-sign-mou-for-lithium-recycling-in-japan]
[2] JGC Japan Corporation. (n.d.). Retrieved from [https://www.jgc.co.jp/en/]
[3] Tozero Expands Lithium Recycling Capabilities with Strategic Partnership. (2025, July). Retrieved from [https://www.tozero.com/news/tozero-expands-lithium-recycling-capabilities-with-strategic-partnership]
[4] The Japanese Lithium-Ion Battery Sector: An Overview. (2023, March). Retrieved from [https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5107548/the-japanese-lithium-ion-battery-sector-an]
In the collaboration between Tozero and JGC Japan, they aim to leverage technological advancements in lithium-ion battery recycling, demonstrating the intersection of science, especially environmental-science, and technology. The partnership also seeks to contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the dependency on raw lithium sourcing and promoting the circular economy.
