TOKYO >> Now that reducing the use of plastics has become a global challenge, the Environment Ministry will start a project to globally promote Japanese companies with technologies related to eco-friendly plastics.

In cooperation with the World Economic Forum, an international organization based in Switzerland, the ministry will share informa­tion at international meetings and through its relations with multinational companies in countries in Europe and North America.

The goal is to help create business opportunities for the Japanese companies.

Companies such as German sportswear maker Adidas and Swedish clothing retailer H&M have set goals to replace plastic- based materials with recycled and eco-friendly ones. Many of these firms are still researching alternative materials production methods.

The government will begin selecting companies, such as beverage makers and household utensil manufacturers, as early as next month.

It plans to develop a roster of about 100 companies and will accept applications from companies further in the process. Selected companies will develop technologies with advice from government experts.

The technologies will be shared with the Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy, an environmental activity group under the umbrella of the forum that comprises about 60 organizations, including firms such as Apple and Google, international institutions and governments.