With over 11 years of dedicated leadership as the CEO of Green Science Alliance, a group company of Fuji Pigment Co., Ltd., Ryohei Mori stands at the forefront of developing and commercializing innovative and eco-friendly materials for diverse applications. Holding a Ph.D. in molecular engineering from Kyoto University, also, knowledge gained from General Management Program of Harvard Business School, Mori brings a profound understanding of materials science, electrochemistry, and biology to his role.
Mori’s passion lies in leading the research and development of groundbreaking products, including carbon nanotubes, battery materials, graphene, quantum dots, artificial photosynthesis (CO2 capture and conversion), and biodegradable plastics. As a hands-on leader, even in the capacity of the founder and CEO, he actively engages in the initial research and development of new products. Once a potential innovation is identified, Mori shares his expertise with the research and sales teams, providing technical details, highlighting features, and outlining potential customers and markets.
Beyond product development, Mori takes charge of sales and marketing efforts targeting both domestic and international customers. Additionally, he oversees strategic partnerships with academic and industrial collaborators, ensuring a holistic approach to innovation and growth.
Mori’s mission extends beyond business success; he is committed to contributing to global sustainability and environmental protection. His focus is on creating cutting-edge solutions that address critical issues such as waste reduction, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. His leadership reflects a dedication to learning, idea exchange, and exploring new opportunities in the ever-evolving field of green technology. Ryohei Mori stands as a visionary leader, pioneering solutions for a sustainable and eco-friendly future.
Innovation in Biomass-Based Alternatives and Advanced Materials
Mori shares insights into their company’s impactful initiatives focused on sustainability and innovation. The primary objective is the development and utilization of natural biomass-based biodegradable plastic to combat CO2 emissions and reduce plastic pollution. Beyond plastics, Green Science Alliance aims to replace a spectrum of petroleum-based chemical products—including resin, coating, glue, adhesive, color, ink, paint, plasticizer, cutting fluid, 3D printer ink, and fuel—with natural biomass-derived alternatives.
This transformative concept has been documented in a scientific article, and the published paper even earned the distinction of becoming the cover front image of RSC Sustainability from the Royal Society of Chemistry. The goal is not merely limited to plastics but extends to various chemical products derived from plant-based sources, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability.
Green Science Alliance also delves into the development of next-generation rechargeable batteries, fuel cells, and solar cells with the potential to provide cost-effective and robust solutions for renewable energy production. The team is exploring innovative materials such as quantum dots, metal-organic frameworks, ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents, nano cellulose, and other nano materials, showcasing a commitment to cutting-edge technology.
Moreover, the company is actively engaged in the exploration of new applications in fields like medical research (especially in cancer research), cosmetics, agriculture, fertilizer, and water harvesting, leveraging the latest advancements in cutting-edge materials.
Despite being a relatively small chemical company with around 110 employees, Green Science Alliance is dedicated to pioneering advancements and chasing the frontiers of materials and technology. Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the development of eco-friendly alternatives underscores the significant impact even a smaller organization can make in addressing global challenges.
Staying at the Forefront of Cutting-Edge Research and Collaborative Initiatives
As CEO, Mori actively stays informed on cutting-edge research through personal study of scientific articles, conference attendance, and patent reviews. He contributes to technology advertisement by writing and publishing papers and speaking at conferences. Mori also engages in hands-on research to develop new materials. Recently, the company has shifted towards collaborative efforts, fostering partnerships with universities, other companies, and investing in startups to promote shared research and business initiatives.
Pursuit of Sustainable Innovation and Business Transformation
Mori expresses a dual motivation: not only pursuing cutting-edge research but also developing sustainable, carbon-neutral, and environmentally friendly businesses. Despite the escalating environmental challenges like global warming and pollution, transitioning to sustainable practices proves challenging due to the prevailing reliance on fossil fuels for profit.
Complicating matters, the parent company, Fuji Pigment Co., Ltd., boasts an 80-year history in petroleum-based chemical color business. Shifting the mindset of employees from petroleum to biomass chemical business becomes a formidable task. Despite the evident need for sustainability, the success and satisfaction derived from the existing petroleum business create resistance to change.
The transition towards natural biomass and sustainable practices requires not only strong determination but also financial support to overcome these challenges and pave the way for a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future.
Wisdom on leadership
Mori emphasizes the demanding nature of the CEO role, stressing the importance of hard work and a deep understanding of technology. He underscores the significance of listening to the opinions of individuals within the company, recognizing that feedback isn’t solely complaints but often indicative of employees seeking to contribute to the company’s improvement.
Mori’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs entering the same industry centers on the need for unwavering determination and resilience. Changing an established, petroleum-based industry towards a carbon-neutral, sustainable model requires a strong will and a forward-thinking mindset.
Leading with Vision
Green Science Alliance achieved a significant milestone by being selected as one of the startup companies supported by the United Nations in 2020 (UNOPS GIC KOBE). This recognition is a testament to their commitment to promoting sustainable, carbon-neutral business practices. The company has actively contributed to the scientific community by publishing numerous scientific papers and presenting at conferences, showcasing their cutting-edge research efforts. This dual focus on business sustainability and scientific advancement aligns with global efforts to address environmental challenges and promote a more sustainable future.
Mori adds that the continuous effort is deemed essential for both the CEO and the entire team to propel and expand green sustainable, carbon-neutral business initiatives. Green Science Alliance aspires to go public and be listed on the stock market in the coming years.
