“It’s a very exciting time for our company. I think the world would be captivated by our new lines of products coming up this spring. Because it is the first time that we are launching with the combination of :made entirely of naturally derived BIO-Based plastics based on plants such like sugar cane, amazing durability as well as heat resistance such like petroleum-based plastics, and a package engineered from origami recycled paper from Peace Memorial Park”.

Meeting Hiroaki Sagara, the director of a global company Sagara Inc. Before initiating a conversation with him, a brief introduction.

In 2010, Hiroaki laid down basis of Sagara Inc catering with an aim to cater needs of people living around him. For years, Hiroaki played his pivotal role in the transformation of Danish children’s furniture brand into a multimillion dollar company. In 2014, Hiroaki initiated his research about eco-friendly biomass plastics, aiming at the European Market as his target.

Hiroaki now has his very own pop-up store in Brooklyn, NY, while continuing his initiative to introduce eco-friendly custom tableware globally. Today, we have the privilege of knowing more about his initiative, his goals and what makes his brand “REALE” the distinct one amongst all.

Surely an honour having you here. Could you please tell us about your initiative and your ideology behind it?

“Well, the younger and the future generation are my two fundamental targets. Our company brand, REALE, isn’t just about the ingredients used to create custom tableware, but it’s so much more. It’s about teaching children basic table manners in a way that remains joyful and encouraging for them. Moreover, our brand is also aimed to foster the development of human senses in younger children, which are sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste.

We pay special attention to the way we package our products. We ensure that disposable plastics and environmentally-toxic films are not used during the whole manufacturing cycle.”

That’s impressive. What were some of the obstacles you had to overcome?

“Educating people about diminishing their everyday plastic usage was definitely one of the major challenges we had to encounter. Despite the fact that “plastic reduction” has been a trend in places like Europe and the United States, it’s still an issue in most countries.

If you could choose one thing to share to the industry what advice would you pick for them?

“Well, I would like to highlight the importance of putting genuine efforts into the production of products which are made up of biomass plastics, BIO plastics, biodegradable resins, and recycled plastics. Such assets can help to replace petroleum and fossil-based plastics for the good of all.

Each one of us must play our role. Every step matters. Try participating in environmentally friendly procedures by limiting plastics’ use and reducing unnecessary plastic and natural resources consumption. It’s time to get serious regarding this critical issue and start taking actions to fix the prevailing situation.

Hiroaki at the manufacturing facility

“I believe we need to manifest initiatives for the protection of our natural environment. Being a human being, living on the planet and consuming all the fruits and vegetable nature is providing, it’s a matter of immense pride for me. I would gladly take every conceivable advance and fulfil my mission as one of the living inhabitants on this Earth.

I likewise think that the consumption of healthy, nutritious meals is equally crucial for all of us.

It’s something our body needs. Moreover, a delicious meal means happy, united families, right?

We’ll provide you such joyous feasts for you and your families.”

That’s absolutely amazing! What are your future plans?

I want to expand our production bases. They won’t be merely restricted to Japan and cover regions like North America, Europe, and other markets. Most importantly, I would like to manufacture products that are competent to replace conventional fossil and petroleum ones.

Suppose we would be able to develop environmentally friendly products, raise our market share to around 1% and provide them as raw materials to some of the industries. In that case, I believe it would be a huge milestone for us.”

That’s so good to hear. I wish the best for you and your company. Surely, you are an inspiration to hundreds.

Thank you for your time.