TOYO GLASS has officially begun full-scale operation of a new large-scale glass melting furnace at its Kashiwa plant in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, marking a significant step forward in sustainable glass production.

The furnace, which commenced operations on March 31, 2026, utilises an advanced oxygen combustion method, replacing traditional air-based combustion with high-concentration oxygen. This innovation eliminates nitrogen from the combustion process, significantly improving heat transfer efficiency during glass melting. As a result, the company expects to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by approximately 20% per furnace while maintaining the same production capacity.

This development is particularly notable as, according to TOYO GLASS, it represents the first implementation in Japan of an oxygen combustion system in a glass bottle furnace with a production capacity exceeding 200 tonnes per day. The system also removes the need for conventional heat storage chambers that rely on large volumes of heat-retaining bricks, further enhancing operational efficiency.

The initiative, launched in May 2024, took nearly two years to complete, including design, construction, and system integration. Oxygen used in the process is stored in liquid form, vaporised, and then supplied directly to the furnace.

As part of the Toyo Seikan Group Holdings, TOYO GLASS continues to prioritise environmental responsibility. This project reflects broader industry efforts to address the high energy demands of glass production and reduce carbon emissions.