Replacing glass bottles with other containers is a trend in Japan, but Nihon Yamamura Glass has made efforts to preserve the position of glass bottles with the development of innovative technology. To emphasise the environmental compatibility of glass, the Japan Glass Bottle Association promotes "ecology bottles", originally developed by Nihon in 1991 using 100% mixed colour cullet. Yamamura's technology aims to enhance glass bottle advantages. Chemical strengthening treatment developed in 1975 has improved bottle strength and reduced weight. Micro-Coat is a very thin resin coating, that increases bottle resistance to pressure and adds colour or decorative features including UV protection. New-Foamed-pre-Label has lower heat conductivity and improved cushioning properties, suitable for bottles used in vending machines. New caps have also been developed.
