Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 requires not only energy decarbonization but also a transition toward "Carbon Independence" in material industries such as steel, chemicals, and cement, through the effective utilization and recycling of domestic carbon resources.

Since 2024, the Committee for Regional Carbon Neutrality Promotion of the Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan (SCEJ) has developed the "Carbon Independence Vision," focusing on plastics recycling, woody biomass, and carbon capture and utilization (CCU). The committee has quantitatively assessed carbon flows, implementation roadmaps, investment requirements, and economic feasibility.

Held in conjunction with SCEJ meetings since March 2020, this symposium will take place on March 15 (Monday) afternoon, featuring invited presentations and a panel discussion. We will discuss how to connect resources, technologies, demand, and investment across industries and regions to establish carbon circulation as an integrated societal system, beyond the deployment of individual technologies.

The symposium is free and open to the public, aiming to promote interdisciplinary research and academic advancement through broad discussions.

A general poster session (P-1) will be held on March 16 (Tuesday) afternoon. We welcome presentations on carbon neutrality, including technology development, dissemination and implementation, industrial and societal transformation, and assessment methodologies.