The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (President and CEO: Karin Markides, hereinafter referred to as OIST) and Orion Breweries, Ltd. (President and CEO: Hajime Murano, hereinafter referred to as Orion Breweries) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today on August 14, 2024 to promote collaboration.
Based on this MOU, OIST, who promotes international, interdisciplinary and cutting-edge research, education, innovation, and community engagement, and Orion Breweries, which is committed to promoting a circular economy and a low-carbon society rooted in the local community, will leverage their respective strengths to establish a foundation for innovation. Specifically, they will work together on initiatives aimed at developing and implementing next-generation energy solutions at the Orion Beer Nago Factory and at the OIST campus.
Under the MOU, the parties will regularly exchange information and collaborate on development efforts, with the goal of establishing a multi-layered partnership on the following:
- Research, education, and innovation related to sustainable energy systems for a carbon-neutral society.
- Joint development of pre-competitive advanced research and new technologies that will contribute to a carbon-neutral society.
- Establishment of a sustainable energy demonstration platform in Okinawa.
- Other related matters that will benefit both parties.
"This agreement is part of OIST's strategy for developing sustainable energy solutions on islands in harsh climate, said OIST President and CEO Karin Markides during the signing ceremony. "OIST envisions the creation of a test bed that will serve as a reality laboratory for the development of advanced technologies that can help us realize carbon neutrality. Our researchers will work to inspire and collaborate with a diverse set of local, national, and international stakeholders. Through the collaboration with Orion Beer and other local companies, such as Okinawa Electric Power Company, as well as local municipalities, national government, multinational companies, and the financial sector, we will pool knowledge and resources to bring about meaningful change."
Hajime Murano, President and CEO of Orion Brewery, said "his agreement reflects a groundbreaking vision to achieve carbon neutrality across Okinawa. By collaborating with OIST, we will join forces to tackle global and local challenges, and create opportunities to contribute to the sustainable development of our planet and society."
