Nakagin Capsule Tower Regeneration Project

A global artistic movement reinterpreting kintsugi philosophy (repairing broken objects for continued use) as contemporary art and design. Ranging from luxury art pieces by Japanese ceramic and lacquer artisans to public workshops and interior design applications. Fuses wabi-sabi aesthetics with sustainability principles, representing a distinctly Japanese-origin value system gaining worldwide recognition.

Japan's commitment to a circular economy promoting resource cycling. Systems promoting product reuse, recycling, and upcycling are embedded in society. Unique developments include the success of secondhand platforms like Mercari and resource recovery from urban mines.

Sorting and recycling systems for containers, packaging, appliances, and vehicles. Generational environmental education has created high public recycling awareness. Plastic bottle recovery rates exceed 90%, among the world's highest. Recognized as an example of corporate circular economy practice.

A detailed waste classification collection system for plastic bottles, cans, paper, etc. Highly regarded globally for its high recovery rates and technological capabilities. Reflects public environmental consciousness and promoted in school education. Practical example of circular economy model, showcasing Japanese sustainability approach merging technology and culture.

World-class waste sorting and recycling system. Characterized by detailed classification rules (combustible, non-combustible, plastic, etc.). Varies by municipality. Achieves high collection and reuse rates. Balances economic efficiency with environmental responsibility. Japan's flagship system.

Japan's secondhand market ranks among the world's largest. Through C2C platforms like Mercari and chain buyback stores like Second Street, transactions reach trillions in scale annually. From luxury goods to apparel, diverse products circulate. Established in a recycling-conscious society, the secondhand market realizes waste reduction and circular resource use, becoming a sustainable model.

Takeo's washi paper industry's recycling and upcycling initiative in Saga Prefecture. It regenerates old washi paper into new fibers and transforms them into building materials and fashion items. While preserving a 1000+ year-old local industry, it practices the circular economy.