5 May 2026 – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and a Japanese sustainable construction materials company Tagawa Shikkui Labs Co. Ltd. have signed a Statement of Intent to collaborate on the deployment of innovative, low-carbon solutions for Ukraine’s reconstruction. 

At the core of this initiative is a focus on technology transfer, capacity development, and the application of circular economy principles in a post-conflict setting, under UNIDO’s “Green industrial recovery project for Ukraine through technology transfer from and the co-creation of new businesses with Japan’s private industries,” implemented within the framework of UNIDO green industrial recovery programme for Ukraine (2024-2028).

The partnership will explore how low-carbon construction technologies developed by Tagawa Shikkui Lab can support sustainable reconstruction, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to local economic recovery. 

The company’s patented LIMIX technology can convert construction and demolition debris, such as concrete, brick, and mortar, into high-quality building materials, including tiles, without firing and without emitting carbon dioxide. By using locally available resources such as limestone in Ukraine, the technology enables the reuse of war-generated debris in sustainable reconstruction.

“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to innovation-driven recovery, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic development in Ukraine,” said Yuko Yasunaga, UNIDO Deputy Director General.

UNIDO will provide overall coordination as the lead project agency and grant provider. It will support feasibility assessments, facilitate engagement with partners and investors, and ensure alignment with international standards and national regulations. UNIDO will also support site visits, including safety and security arrangements, and contribute to training and outreach activities.

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, emphasized the organization’s commitment to working with international partners to transform the country’s current challenges into economic opportunities: “This initiative demonstrates the kind of innovation-driven partnerships needed to support Ukraine’s recovery at scale,” Lootsma said. “With extensive experience in debris management and recycling, as well as strong operational capacity and partnerships on the ground, UNDP is well-positioned to connect global innovators with Ukraine’s local needs. Together, these collaborations are able not only to accelerate the country’s recovery, but also to co-create shared value and drive innovation far beyond Ukraine.

Under collaboration among UNIDO, UNDP, and Tagawa Shikkui Labs, UNDP in Ukraine will support field-level implementation by facilitating access to debris processing sites and assisting with sample collection and export procedures to Japan. It will also provide data and analysis on debris composition, support compliance with national regulations, including occupational safety and health, and contribute to training, public outreach, and capacity development.

Tagawa Shikkui Labs is currently conducting a feasibility study in Ukraine to evaluate the technical, environmental, and commercial viability of producing carbon-neutral interior tiles from war debris in Ukraine using the LIMIX technology.

"We are honored to have the opportunity to work with UNIDO and UNDP to apply LIMIX technology toward Ukraine’s sustainable recovery. By helping transform war debris into low-carbon construction tiles, we aim to contribute to a circular economy and green industrial reconstruction," said Shimon Yukihira, President, Tagawa Shikkui Labs.

There is also potential to develop an export industry from Ukraine targeting environmentally conscious markets in Europe and beyond.

For more information about the current feasibility study, please visit here:
Eco-friendly tiles for sustainable reconstruction | UNIDO

About UNIDO:

UNIDO, as a specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability, serves its 173 Member States, aiming to support developing and emerging countries on a path towards inclusive and sustainable industrial development by creating shared prosperity, advancing economic competitiveness, safeguarding the environment and strengthening knowledge and institutions.

The Government of Ukraine and UNIDO jointly developed and launched the UNIDO green industrial recovery programme for Ukraine (2024-2028), which serves as the overarching framework for UNIDO’s support to Ukraine’s industrial recovery. Under this programme, UNIDO promotes a strategic and integrated approach to rebuilding industry, focusing on creating opportunities for people, fostering a green economy, supporting businesses and attracting investment.

About UNDP:

United Nations Development Programme works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to reduce poverty, tackle inequalities, and build resilience for sustainable progress. As the UN’s development agency, it supports countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

In Ukraine, UNDP focuses on sustainable recovery and long-term development while addressing the urgent challenges caused by the ongoing war. Its debris management initiatives have already helped remove and sort over 1 million tonnes of debris — enabling safe reconstruction and the return of communities.

About Tagawa Shikkui Labs:

Tagawa Shikkui Labs has developed LIMIX technology, a patented, low-carbon, non-fired lime-based process that could convert construction and demolition debris into high-performance tiles and building materials, supporting circular economy principles and low-carbon reconstruction.

For further information, please contact:

• Irma Juskenaite-Asmus, UNIDO Communications Expert, i.juskenaite@unido.org 
• Mizuho Yokoi, UNDP Programme Manager, mizuho.yokoi@undp.org
• Benji Cheng, Manager, Overseas Business Section, yunchi@shirokabe.co.jp