Discussion Paper

Best Practices and

Recommendations for
Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

Friends of the Earth Japan

and
Institute for Global Environmental Strategies
Friends of the Earth Japan (FoE Japan)
3-30-22-203 Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0014
TEL: (+81)3-6907-7217 FAX: (+81)3-6907-7219
Email: tsukaisutezero@[Link]
URL: [Link]

Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES)

2108-11, Kamiyamaguchi, Hayama, Kanagawa, 240-0115, JAPAN
TEL: +81-46-855-3720 FAX: +81-46-855-3709
Email: iges@[Link]
URL: [Link]

[Editors]
Ryoko Seguchi, Friends of the Earth Japan
Yasuhiko Hotta, Institute for Global Environmental Strategies

The report is primary based on a report titled “より少ない資源で より豊かな

くらしを (A Richer Life with Fewer Resources)” by Friends of the Earth
Japan (FoE Japan) in March 2013.
The report is based on a research project of the Asia Resource Circulation
Policy Research Group, coordinated by Institute for Global Environmental
Strategies and funded by the FY 2013 Asia Resource Circulation Research
Project commissioned by Ministry of the Environment of Japan (MOEJ).
The Asia Resource Circulation Policy Research Group is a collaborative
research group focused on policy research on 3R promotion in Asia, with
contributions from researchers at IGES, IDE-JETRO, NIES, University
of Malaya, Asia Institute of Technology, Bandung Institute of Technology,
Tokyo Institute of Technology and United Nations Centre for Regional
Development (UNCRD).
No parts of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without prior
permission in writing from MOEJ.
Although every effort is made to ensure objectivity and balance, the
publication of research results or translations thereof does not imply
MOEJ endorsement.
MOEJ maintains a position of neutrality at all times on issues concerning
public policy. Hence conclusions that are reached in this publication
should be understood to be those of the authors and not attributed to
officers of MOEJ or to MOEJ itself.
Table of Contents

Introduction: Shifting from Recycling to Reduction on the Path to Sustainable Consumption 03

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 05

I. Controlling Excess Packaging 06

Japan 06
Republic of Korea 08

II. Policies and Actions to Reduce the Use of Single-use Shopping Bags 10
Systems and actions in Europe and Asia 10
Actions in Japan 12

III. Actions to Reduce Single-use Products (such as Paper Cups) 14

Regulations to control the use of single-use products in Republic of Korea 14
Control of the use of single-use food containers in Germany 15
Promotion of actions for the use of reusable cups at events in Japan 15

IV. Movements to Reduce the Use of PET Bottles and Review Policies on Tap Water 17
United States 17
UK 18
Australia 18
Japan 18

V. Community Building Focused on Waste Prevention that Contributes to Local/

Regional Revitalization in Japan 21

Recommendations towards Waste Reduction and Prevention 25

I. Course of Action and Fundamental Perspective in the Creation of a

Waste Prevention System 26
II. Recommendations 28
Intoroduction:
Shifting from Recycling to Reduction on the Path to
Sustainable Consumption
Major cities in developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region have seen an increase in the amount of waste generated
and changes in the composition of waste (increase in plastic waste, e-waste) in line with shifts in consumption
patterns as cities have undergone rapid urbanisation and the arrival of the consumer age. The rise of and changes
in waste composition in cities in developing countries have resulted in an increase in environmental pollution due
to improper treatment and environmentally unsound recycling practices. Increased consumption is predicted for
developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region as they are expected to undergo further economic development. This
is an indication that today’s waste issues will likely become more severe in the future.

In general, the informal recycling sector in developing countries in Asia, which recycles items that consumers no
longer need, is active on a market-based recycling activities, and is instrumental in reducing the amount of waste
sent to final disposal sites. In fact, recycling activities also contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gases compared
with the manufacturing of the same type of materials from natural resources, help save resources, and create jobs.
On the other hand, recycling that is solely dependent on the market may stop circulating as a result of progressive
economic development because the income from the collection of recyclable resources falls comparatively, and
public awareness improves. In this case, it may become necessary to promote recycling that has been dependent on
the recycling market to date as part of governmental policy. Although recycling plays a major role in reducing the
amount of waste sent to final disposal sites, in this situation, there is concern about the increased burden on national
and local governments for the treatment of waste.

Therefore, measures which control the generation of waste and unwanted items at source, i.e. “reduce,” become
noteworthy. Waste reduction measures have the potential to raise the awareness of the community and other
stakeholders, control the generation of waste, and improve the quality of recyclable resources. By implementing waste
reduction measures, we can anticipate a reduced burden on waste management. In fact, although waste management
in Japan focuses on incineration and recycling in order to reduce the amount of waste disposed, in recent years, various
measures to control the generation of waste at source have also been taken in order to reduce waste. There are a number
of similar, distinctive actions being carried out in Republic of Korea and Europe as shown in this report, as well.

In the hierarchy of waste management, we first focus on reduction (reduce), and then reuse and recycle. However,
it is difficult in many cases to get a picture of the specific measures that should be taken when it comes to reducing
and preventing waste. This report provides an introduction to the various activities for waste prevention systems in
Japan, Republic of Korea, and Europe and others, national level policies (regulations, economic tools), independent
actions by the industrial sector, and activities of local residents and NGOs. In particular, this report will introduce
(1) examples of actions to control excess/excessive packaging, (2) policies and actions to reduce the use of single-use
shopping bags, (3) actions to reduce disposable products, (4) movements in both Japan and overseas reduce the use of
PET bottles and review policies on tap water, and (5) examples of community building focused on waste prevention
that contributes to local revitalization.

This report was developed by Friends of the Earth Japan (FoE Japan) and the Institute for Global Environmental
Strategies (IGES) with updated case studies as an English-language version of the Japanese report “Yori sukunai
shigen de yori yutakana kurashi wo (A Richer Life with Fewer Resources),” published by FoE Japan in March 2013.
This report was produced for policymakers, experts, NGOs, and local organizations that are involved in 3R policies
in developing countries in Asia as reference for actions to reduce waste. Although there may be cases that are not
necessarily suitable for the current situation in developing countries in Asia, we expect that this paper will be helpful
as a compilation of specific measures to reduce and prevent wastes.

Intoroduction 03
Reduction Policies
and Initiatives
 I. Controlling
Excess Packaging
The most effective method of “reduction” that a producer can
carry out in the design phase of a product is to reduce the amount of
packaging as much as possible. Regulations, standards,
award systems, and campaigns are in place to support this.

Japan included the creation of original and proper packaging

standards, requests to manufacturers to correct packaging
In Japan, although regulations on excess packaging enacted practices, and the development of a “worst packaging”
by local governmental ordinances and independent voting system. With the support of the city of Kobe, the
guidelines developed by business groups are in place, there goals and intent of these activities were adopted in city
are no unified/comprehensive national guidelines on ordinances. In 1972, “excess packaging” was incorporated
packaging. in environmental ordinances with the objective of
protecting consumer habits; in 1974, this shifted to
1. Regulations on excess packaging enacted by the establishment of ordinances on consumer habits.
local governmental ordinances In the same year, a “Committee on Proper Packaging”
was established, which consisted of representatives from
Some local governments in Japan have set up regulations academia, businesses, and consumers. This committee
for excess packaging and standards for proper packaging discussed the necessity of specific standards for packaging,
through local ordinances. and in 1983, established guidelines that included these
The move to establish these ordinances began in the standards.
1970s with the objective of protecting consumers from
misleading advertising that could arise from the use of 2) Overview of system
excess packaging, and is oriented in ordinances related Article 26 (Prevention of Excess Packaging ) of the
to consumer lifestyles. After the establishment of these “Ordinance to Protect Kobe Citizen’s Lifestyles” clearly
regulations, measures to reduce waste and conserve outlines regulations for excess packaging, and stipulates
resources were added. The cities of Kobe, Kyoto, Sendai, that businesses must not use excessive packing above
and Nagoya have also enacted similar standards for what is necessary to protect or maintain the quality of a
proper packaging, such as space ratio. Compliance by product, and that may mislead consumers by exaggerating
businesses is regulated in two ways by local governments: the contents of an item (including packaging for items
as compulsory and as an obligation to make an effort to that are directly given to consumers and packaging
comply. using containers). Regulations target the packaging of
items (excluding expensive items, such as jewellery) that
<Case: Excess packaging regulated through ordinances consumers will physically hold. Specific standards for
in Kobe> excess packaging are oriented in enforcement regulations
1) Background and guidelines, as follows.
Kobe was the first city in Japan to adopt ordinances to 1. Space capacity (capacity after deduction of the volume
regulate excess packaging. First, women’s groups in the of the product contents from the packaging capacity)
city conducted measurement tests, and from this, gained of more than what is required for the actual item (space
an awareness of the issues surrounding excess packing. capacity: over 15%)
This resulted in the development of activities that 2. Packaging costs that are higher than necessary when

06 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

compared to the price of the actual item (packaging Although it is assumed that the ratio of content volume
cost: over 15%) as per the capacity of the immediate container must be
3. Items that include information other than the proper less than 40% and that there must not be any unnecessary
display or description (product name, weight, price, space in the outside container, a numerical value for the
directions for use, description) that unduly influences space ratio has not been specified.
a consumer’s selection
4. When space capacity is higher than necessary due to 2) Actions by manufactures’ organisations for
item assortment or package deals. different materials
5. Packaging which clearly camouflages secondary use Details on the roles of businesses and the necessity for
(usage after an item’s primary function has been cooperation between stakeholders were confirmed during
fulfilled, such as protection of the item and preservation the process of reviewing the Containers and Packaging
of the item’s quality) Recycling Law, and the Liaison Committee Promoting
Calculation methods for space ratio are specified in 3R was formed by eight different organisations of material
guidelines using illustrations. manufactures in 2005, which released a voluntary action
plan for the promotion of the 3Rs (target date: FY 2010).
3) Security control measures and current state of Businesses have been able to reduce waste by limiting
implementation the amount of packaging used by reducing weight and
Article 30 specifies guidance or recommendations of using thin containers (includes numerical targets),
corrective measures for persons who offer items that are promoting proper packaging, and developing refillable
in violation of these regulations, and the publication of containers. By 2010, numerical targets for reducing
violations if recommendations are not followed. weight had been achieved for seven out of eight materials,
Actual monitoring is carried out regularly for and further reduction targets have been released in the
businesses that are the targets of these ordinances. During second voluntary action plan (target date: FY 2015).
Japan’s mid-year and end-of-year gift giving periods, city Specific examples of waste reduction include, for
employees conduct surveys on gifts at department stores example, the publication of a collection of case studies
and supermarkets, and when there is a direct complaint by the Plastic Packaging Recycling Council. In particular,
from the city’s residents. Although the local government we can see that detergent, for example, has become more
provides “corrective instruction” for businesses in the compact and repackaged sales have increased. However,
city if packaging is found to be in violation of standards, even with actions being taken by top companies, the
this type of instruction remains in the form of a request practice of excess packaging is still in place today.
(“correction request”) since much of the packaging
and production of products is carried out by businesses 3. Actions by civic groups and
outside of the city. local governments

2. Actions by businesses 1) Suginami Environment Award

An award event was held in Suginami Ward in Tokyo on the
1) Independent standards for proper packaging by theme of excess packaging, as the main plan of the ward-
industry sponsored environmental exhibition over a six-year period
In order to deal with the problem of packaging that from 2004 to 2009. The Suginami Environment Award
exaggerates the contents of an item, business groups presented awards in two categories from the perspective of
enacted a fair competition code for sightseeing the ward’s residents: a “heavy dress award,” presented for
souvenirs in the 1960s, which specified guidelines and products or to industries that use excessive or unnecessary
standards that businesses should observe. Although containers and packaging, and a “light dress award,”
this is a comparatively early example, there are various which was presented for products or to industries that
independent guidelines that exist for each industry. use simple packaging and contribute to waste prevention.
For example, Article 11 (ban on excess packaging) of Candidates were selected by a committee (Chair: Itaru
the fair trade agreement for cosmetics states that businesses Yasui, UNU Vice-Rector Emeritus for Environment
must not use excess containers and packaging other than Sustainable Development; FoE Japan was also a member
what is required to protect an item, preserve quality, for of the committee), and winners were determined by the
forming techniques or for designs. Proper packaging residents’ votes. Awards were also presented for eco-
regulations for cosmetics have been defined based on this. actions of the ward’s residents and businesses.

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 07

 Items selected for the “heavy dress award”/ Republic of Korea
semi-finals of the Grand Prix included gifts from
department stores, excess packaging of mail orders, 3R measures in Republic of Korea are developed
container packaging of every day household items from based on the “Act on the Promotion of Saving and
department stores, and disposable containers from Recycling of Resources,” which was enacted in 1992.
fast food establishments. Items selected for the “light This law stipulates the control of excess packaging and
dress award”/semi-finals of the Grand Prix included regulations for disposable items, as both a recycling
repackaged products (such as coffee) and reusable system and concrete waste prevention system that puts
packaging of moving companies. “Winners” of the responsibility on producers.
“heavy dress award” did not attend the award ceremony,
however, these companies and business groups were 1. Control of excess packaging
contacted by the ward and requested to correct these
practices. Changes were reported in the business Regulations for excess packaging were introduced
practices of department store gifts and packaging in August 1993 based on Article 9 of the Act on the
of cell phones, and at subsequent ceremonies, these Promotion of Saving and Recycling of Resources.
businesses were given a “Diet Award.” This system includes rules and regulations that are
This is a noteworthy example, as it is an event defined in order to control excessive and unnecessary
organised by the local government, which allows a packaging in the process of the manufacture, import,
message to be sent from the point of view of residents or sale of a product.
to businesses that use excess packaging. It also plays a Under these rules and regulations, businesses
role in urging corrections for business practices that are involved in the manufacturing, import, or sales of a
not conducive to a healthy environment. product are urged to reduce the amount and number
of packaging materials, control unnecessary packaging,
and use packaging materials that are easy to recycle.
Specifically, the following standards were
established: standards for packaging materials (Article
3), standards for packaging methods according to the
type of product (Article 4, paragraph 2), and standards
for the reduction each year of packaging materials
made with synthetic resin (Article 8, paragraph 1).
Standards for packaging methods according to product
type are shown in Table 1-1.
In addition, retailers with a store space of over 33m3
are requested to avoid repacking items with additional
Representative from the ward’s residents accepting the packaging as a way to control excess packaging (Article
“Heavy Dress Award” from the ward director 11).

2) Herasou (Let’s reduce) Shopping 2. Recommendations for the production of

A group of students from the Faculty of Economics repackaged products
of Kobe University formed an NGO, Gomi-Japan,
which conducts studies on content weight and the Excess packaging regulations specify that businesses
weight of containers and packaging for select items, must strive to ensure that products that have packaging
such as detergent, shampoo, and PET bottle beverages. that can be reused by repacking or refilling are higher
Gomi-Japan has carried out a campaign since 2007 than the fixed ratio of the total production of the
for consumers at stores, such as supermarkets, to product concerned (Article 10). Specifics are below.
recommend “Herasou products” (products with 1. Makeup articles (of cosmetics): 10%
reduced packaging) that have low packaging ratios. 2. Liquid and powder detergent that uses synthetic
Students, civic groups, retailers, manufacturers, and resin containers: 50%
the local government work with each other to expand 3. Shampoos, conditioners: 25%
activities. 4. Wet tissues: 60%
5. Instant coffee: 70%
6. Crayons, paints: 10%

08 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

Table 1. Packaging standards by product type (Related to Article 4, paragraph 2)

Standards
Product Type
Packaging space ratio Packaging times
No more than / maximum No more than / maximum
Processed foods
15% double wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Beverages
10% single wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Food and beverages Liquor
10% double wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Confectionary items
10% (35% for cakes) double wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Health aids
15% double wrapping

Cosmetics No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Cosmetics
(Includes fragrance) 10% (excludes perfumes) double wrapping
Unit Item
No more than / maximum No more than / maximum
Detergents Detergents
10% double wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Toys, dolls
35% double wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Miscellaneous Stationery
30% double wrapping

Miscellaneous No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

(limited to wallets, belts) 30% double wrapping

Articles other than No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Articles other than medicine
medicine 20% double wrapping

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum

Clothing Dress shirts, underwear
10% single wrapping

Primary foods, processed foods, beverages, liquor,

No more than / maximum No more than / maximum
General Products confectionary items, health aids, cosmetics, detergent,
25% double wrapping
miscellaneous

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 09

 II. Policies and Actions to
Reduce the Use of
Single-use Shopping Bags
Measures are being taken in many countries to reduce
the use of plastic and other single-use shopping bags
as the first step for waste prevention actions in retail stores.

Systems and actions In addition, biodegradable plastic, as well as PBP, were

added as taxable items. Tax revenues are applied to the
in Europe and Asia government’s environmental fund.

In some countries in Europe and Asia, systems for 2) Denmark: Taxation on manufacturers
waste prevention at the national level are moving full- As part of the country’s green tax, which raises taxes
steam ahead. In developed countries, systems are being according to environmental impact, Denmark introduced
introduced with the primary objective of resource a packaging tax for containers, packaging, and disposable
conservation; developed countries are introducing tableware in 1994. Taxes are levied on manufacturers
systems with the primary objective of environmental and importers according to material and weight (i.e., for
pollution control because streets are becoming littered plastic shopping bags, the levy is DKK 22/kg). Retailers
with disposable bags. Reduction techniques are roughly purchase shopping bags on which a tax has been added,
divided into the following types: economic instruments and supermarkets collect charges levied on their customers
(such as taxes), regulatory instruments (such as bans on for the use of shopping bags. A reduction of 60% was
free distribution), and voluntary agreements. There are achieved after the introduction of this tax. Tax revenue
also countries that have established charge systems as a serves as part of the country’s general finances.
business practice, rather than an institutionalised system,
and others that are regulating the use of petroleum-based 2. Regulatory instruments
plastic bags (PBP) in order to prevent pollution, not
shopping bags themselves. 1) Republic of Korea: Ban on free distribution of
shopping bags
1. Economic instruments In Republic of Korea, the use of “single-use items
(disposable items),” which includes shopping bags, is
1) Ireland: Taxation to shopping bags regulated in the Act on the Promotion of Saving and
As a national policy, Ireland instituted a tax of EUR Recycling of Resources (see Chapter 1). Since performance
0.15 for each shopping bag used at all stores in 2002 in was inconclusive, a ban on the free distribution of
order to reduce the use of shopping bags through a tax shopping bags (both plastic and paper) was bolstered
levied on consumers (Plastic Bag Levy). The first fiscal through voluntary agreements between major chains
year after the introduction of this tax saw a reduction of and the Ministry of the Environment, and in 2006, the
95%, and 90% in the second year in the use of shopping refusal rate rose to 80%. Governmental change in 2008,
bags. After that, the refusal rate fell to 69% in 2006, so however, resulted in the removal of paper bags from the
the government raised the tax to EUR 0.22 per bag from list of target items.
2007, after which the rate rose again (to 79% in 2007).

10 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

2) China: Ban on free distribution of shopping bags voluntary measures could not be achieved. Following this,
In China, the use of shopping bags has increased with rapid compulsory charges and taxes through the legal system
economic growth, and the impact of “white pollution” in each territory were introduced. In Wales, a five pence
on ecosystems because of littering has become a serious charge was implemented for all types of disposable bags
problem. With the “Notice of the General Office of the (plastic, paper, biodegradable bags) from October 2011.
State Council on Restricting the Production, Sale, and In Northern Ireland, a five pence charge was implemented
Use of Plastic Shopping Bags” in 2008, free distribution for all disposable bags from April 2013. In Scotland, as
was uniformly banned for all retailers, and a ban on the well, charges for shopping bags will be implemented from
production of bags that are less than 0.025mm thick October 2014, with England to follow suit after elections
was instituted (includes recommendations for reuse and in 2015. All proceeds are appropriated to charities, such as
biodegradability). The price of shopping bags is different for environmental conservation.
for each company; for Wal-Mart, for example, bags are
charged as follows: CNY 0.1 for small bags, CNY 0.2 for 4. Other
medium bags, and CNY 0.3 for large bags (in Japanese yen,
this is JPY 1, JPY 3, and JPY 5, respectively). However, at 1) Germany: Establishment of charge system through
retailers other than large supermarkets, charge systems for business practices
bags are not yet a part of business practices. In Germany, although a charge system for bags has been
established in supermarkets, it is not legally defined.
3. Voluntary agreements Rather, it is a traditional business practice that has been in
place for years and which values rationality.
United Kingdom: Voluntary agreements between
distribution business circles and the Department for 2) Italy: Charge system based on business practices and
Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, and application of ban on the use of PBP to protect the environment
charges through security measures Italy is the world’s first country to implement institutional
Actions to reduce waste have also been strengthened measures for the use of shopping bags, by applying a
as part of the UK’s aim to create a low-carbon society. levy on non-biodegradable plastic shopping bags as an
In 2007, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and the environmental pollution measure. These measures were
Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs put into place after whales washed up on the country’s
(DEFRA) concluded a voluntary agreement to reduce the shores in 1984, and died from ingesting a number of plastic
use of disposable bags. Participating companies included shopping bags. Although this tax system was eventually
large supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Marks eliminated due to opposition from producers, the practice
& Spenser, which all agreed to a 25% reduction by of retailers collecting required costs from customers is still
December 2008 compared in place, and most supermarkets have instituted a charge
to 2006 levels. Reduction system for the use of plastic bags.
methods were left to the From January 2011, the use of PBP bags was banned
discretion of each company, by law, and supermarkets started to use bags that are
and targets were achieved biodegradable or made of
throug h user charg es, plant-based plastics that
as well as rebate points. can be composted. These
Subsequently, although the measures also make up Italy’s
agreement targeted a 50% industrial strateg y, where
reduction by the spring of biodegradable and plant-
2009, this target could not based plastics that can be
be achieved, and there was Sales of reusable bags at the composted are produced
doubt that the final target registers of Marks & Spenser
that started charging for the use
from the starch of corn
of a 70% reduction could be of disposable shopping bags pro duce d domestica lly.
achieved. Retailers price bags at around
The Climate Change Act, enacted in November EUR 0.10-0.15, and there are
2008, specified procedures for charging for the use stores that offer large bags Price list for bags displayed at
of disposable bags, and security measures were already that can be used more than supermarket registers in Italy
in place in the case that sizable reductions through once.

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 11

 the food supermarkets in the prefecture). Each month,
Actions in Japan data on the use of personal shopping bags for the entire
prefecture, per business, and per city/town/village is
Reductions in the use of plastic shopping bags in Japan published on the prefecture’s website. As of February
were jumpstarted by local actions and as familiar eco- 2013, the use of personal shopping bags was 84.8% for the
activities that had been in place for many years. Techniques entire prefecture.
that are effective in reducing the use of plastic bags were A study by the Ministry of the Environment of
introduced by some businesses and areas, taking advantage Japan found that the disposable bag refusal rate in local
of the regular planning of, and reporting by, retailers that governments that are implementing charge systems
use more than 50 tonnes of containers and packaging reached about 80% after the introduction of the charge
per year (as specified in the Containers and Packaging system (as compared to a rate of 20% prior to the
Recycling Act of 2006 (rev)). However, there are still implementation of the system) (Figure 3-1). Although
some businesses and areas that are not taking effective discounts and points are incentives for some people, this
measures, and this disparity is significant. demonstrates that the application of “charges” can be a
most effective measure.
1. Local actions However, highly-effective measures, such as this type
of charge system, have not spread to major cities with large
Movements, such as local voluntary agreements to populations and high consumption rates, such as Tokyo
promote a reduction in the use of plastic bags, rose and Osaka.
up in various areas through the cooperation of local FoE Japan compiled information on measures for these
governments, businesses and civic groups that seized upon areas as follows.
the revision of the Containers and Packaging Recycling
Act of 2006. According to the results of a study by the <Actions to reduce the use of plastic shopping bags in
Ministry of the Environment in FY 2011, the number of each area (prefecture)>
prefectures that were implementing charge systems for 1. Fees charges through agreements at prefectural level
the use of plastic bags through agreements rose to 19, (leading prefectures)
including designated cities, designated mid-level cities Aomori, Fukushima, Yamanashi, Toyama, Mie,
and special areas, such as the cities of Sapporo, Nagoya, Gifu, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Oita, Okinawa, etc.
and Kyoto, as well as Suginami ward (in Tokyo). The 2. Fees charged through the conclusion of agreements
enforcement of these agreements differs for each local between cities/towns/villages and businesses
government. (participation by prefectures is weak)
For example, in Oita prefecture, a ban on the free Hokkaido, Miyagi, Yamagata, Aichi, etc.
distribution of shopping bags based on agreements was 3. Actions other than charge systems (campaigns to
implemented for the entire prefecture from June 2009, use personal bags, etc.)
and as of February 2013, 224 stores of 31 businesses are Kanagawa, Shimane, Ehime, Fukuoka, Saga,
participating in this agreement (This includes most of Kagoshima, etc.
4. Specific actions by prefectures unknown
Tokyo, Osaka, etc.
Refusal rate
of accepting 30%
shopping bags 2. Actions by businesses
86% Before
from shop
introduction
Since no information has been collected and released
Rate of 19% about the current state of measures implemented for every
After
bringing their introduction business, FoE Japan complied information about measures
own bags 77%
to reduce the use of plastic shopping bags from the top 20
selling major supermarkets and co-ops, as well as public
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
reports from businesses (CSR reports, other) that are
Figure 1. Refusal rate after introduction of charge system carrying out their own original measures. Information on
for plastic shopping bags (in prefectures (MoEJ 2011) some of these measures can be found below.

12 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

Table 2. Actions to reduce shopping bags in supermarkets (by method)

1. Charge system at all stores
Implementation area,
Company name Area/No. of stores Reduction measures No. stores implementing Reduction targets Refusal rate
(Chain name) measures
Seiyu GK Charge system Charge system: 368 stores Refusal rate: 70%
National / 368 stores 52.1% (2011)
(Seiyu) (M: ￥2, L: ￥3) (from Jul 2012) (FY 2013)
Ito-Yokado Co., Ltd. Charge system (￥2) Charge system: all stores
National / 176 stores Refusal rate: 70% 43.3% (FY 2011)
(Itoyokado) from Feb 2013 (from Feb 2013)

2. Charge system in place for some stores

Implementation area,
Company name Area/No. of stores Reduction measures No. stores implementing Reduction targets Refusal rate
(Chain name) measures
AEON Co., Ltd. Charge system (￥5), Charge system: 787 stores 60.4%
National
(AEON) cash-back system (end of Apr 2012) (2011)
74.1% (FY 2011)
UNY Co., Ltd. Chubu, Kansai, Hokuriku, Charge system (￥5), Charge system: 173 stores Refusal rate: 75% Charge system in
(Apita, Raspa, other) Kanto / 227 stores stamp system (end of Jun 2012) (FY 2012) stores: 88.3%

3. Cash-back and point systems (methods other than charge systems)

Implementation area,
Company name* Area/No. of stores Reduction measures No. stores implementing Reduction targets Refusal rate
(Chain name) measures
2 points for each time
Life Corporation Kansai, Kanto / 224 Point system: 224 stores 26.2%
bags refused (￥500
(Life) stores All stores (FY 2011)
rewarded for 500 points)

The Maruetsu, Inc. Usage

Kanto / 269 stores Cash-back system (￥2) 18.7%
(Maruetsu, Lincos) 5% reduction compared
For purchases over ￥1,050 (FY 2011)
with 2010 level

1) Supermarkets a lot of stores. Discount stores have had charge systems

Top supermarkets that meet the in place from the start of business. Eighty-six percent of
requirements as businesses that co-ops incorporate a charge system (includes price box
use a large amount of containers system).
and packaging are introducing
incentives for certain reductions 2) Other businesses
in wa ste (charg e s ystems, Since convenience stores have a number of stores, they are
discounts, rebate points, etc.). considered to meet the requirements of a business that
AEON and Uny have slowly Shopping bags displayed uses large amounts of containers and packaging. However,
expanded charge systems in stores as goods for sale at convenience stores do not take part in local voluntary
registers in Seiyu
through agreements with local agreements, but instead carry out limited activities
governments (as seen in previous section). Prices for bags depending on customer demands. Drug stores also only
are set at JPY 5, which has led to a refusal rate of over 80%. take part in some local agreements.
There was a major movement in top supermarkets Reduction measures are for the most part unobserved
with the simultaneous start of charge systems in Seiyu and in the apparel and cosmetics sector. Customers who
Itoyokado in July 2012 and February 2013, respectively. purchase such items are expected to act as “walking
Although both already offered a JPY 2 discount at the billboards,” as they carry around bags that contain the
register if a customer used their own bags, the stores name of the brand. However, some apparel businesses
decided to implement a charge system to achieve larger are taking action to reduce the use of excess packaging.
reductions. Although the price of bags is low, both stores Patagonia implements a JPY 100 deposit system at all
have reported large reductions, compared to prior to the stores, and most customers bring their own bags when
start of the charge system. shopping at this brand. In addition, at stores such as
The extent of effective actions to reduce the use of United Arrows, a system to contribute to environmental
plastic bags is low at local, small- and medium-sized organizations is in place when customers refuse to use a
supermarkets and upscale supermarkets that do not have bag when shopping.

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 13

 III. Actions to Reduce
Single-use Products
(such as Paper Cups)
In addition to single-use shopping bags, various other single-use items exist.
However, there are not many examples in which the use of these items is controlled
institutionally. There are some examples that can be observed in Republic of Korea,
which has regulated the use of various single-use items based on national law.
We can also learn about reducing the amount of single-use cups and plates from examples in
Europe. The use of reusable cups and plates has spread at event sites in Japan as well.

Regulations to control the regulations were eased for the following: use of paper
cups in restaurants, free distribution of paper bags in retail
use of single-use products stores, and use of lunch containers made out of disposable
in Republic of Korea plastic. Current targets under these regulations are below.

1) Overview and objectives 3) Voluntary agreements

In March 1994, Republic of Korea introduced regulations The strengthening and easing of regulations has been
to control the use of single-use products based on Article mixed until recently. However, voluntary agreements
10 of the Act on the Promotion of Saving and Recycling (independent agreements) have also been put into place
of Resources, at the time the act was put into effect. The in Republic of Korea to complement these regulations.
regulations advise industries that manage businesses over A voluntary agreement to reduce the use of single-use
a fixed scale, such as restaurants, department stores, and items has been concluded between 39 department stores
public baths, as well as businesses that are determined by and the Ministry of the Environment from June 2002 for
an executive order, to control the use of single-use items both plastic and paper shopping bags at retail stores. This
(or “disposable items”). agreement introduces incentives for a complete charge
system of over KRW 50 and promotes the use of personal
2) Expansion and review of targets shopping bags.
These regulations have expanded to target additional In addition, a voluntary
businesses and items through several revisions of the agreement to reduce the
law since its enforcement in 1994. For example, items use of single-use items was
targeted under these regulations include tableware (cups, concluded between chain
plates, forks, spoons, etc.), toothpicks, plastic tablecloths stores and the Ministr y
at restaurants; bans on the free distribution of disposable of the Environment from
shopping bags (plastic bags) at large-scale stores January 2003 for disposable
(department stores) and wholesale markets; and bans on containers at fast food
the free distribution of razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste, restaurants and coffee chains.
shampoo, and conditioner at hotels and public baths. This agreement promotes a
Additional businesses added under these regulations shift to discontinuing the use
include pharmacies, bookstores, and public gymnasiums. of disposable cups, introduces Glass mug at Starbucks in Korea
After a change of the government, in June 2008, items that can be used more (Photo by FoE Japan in 2006)

14 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

Table 3. Industries targeted under regulations on the use of single-use items and compliance rules (Article 4, paragraph 2)
Industry Type Compliance Rules Single-use items targeted under regulations
1. Food services, central kitchens used to produce (1) Control use Disposable cups (plastic, metallic foil, etc.)
food for large groups Disposable plates (paper, plastic, metallic foil, etc.)
Disposable containers (paper, plastic, metallic foil, etc.)
Wooden chopsticks, toothpicks
Disposable spoons, forks, knives
Disposable plastic tablecloths
(2) Control use, such as control of Disposable advertising materials
manufacturing and distribution
2. Public baths, hotels (with seven or more guest Ban free distribution Disposable razors
rooms) Disposable toothbrushes, toothpaste
Disposable shampoos, conditioners

3. Large-scale stores as per Article 2, paragraph (1) Ban free distribution Disposable bags/shopping bags (excludes paper)
3 of the law on developing transportation and
communication industries (hereafter referred to in
this table as “large-scale stores”) (2) Control use, such as control of Disposable advertising materials
manufacturing and distribution
4. Wholesalers and retailers listed in the classification (1) Ban free distribution Disposable bags/shopping bags (excludes paper items)
system of Korean’s standard industries (excludes
industries in Article 3, and industries that report
to minister of the environment in accordance with (2) Control use, such as control of Disposable advertising materials
Article 8, paragraph 1, item 6) manufacturing and distribution
5. Food manufacturing and processing industry; Control use Containers made from disposable plastic
extemporaneous sales, manufacturing, and
processing industry (limited to offices that carry
out business in large-scale stores)
6. Financial industry, insurance/pension industry, Control use, such as control of Disposable advertising materials
security/futures broking industry, real estate manufacturing and distribution
leasing/supply industry, advertising industry,
educational facilities other than those in the
educational services industry, theatre management
industry, and public performance management
industry, as per the classification system of
standard industries in Republic of Korea.
7. Playgrounds, gymnasiums, general physical Ban free distribution Disposable support items
education facilities

than once at stores of a fixed size, and implements deposit and villages have banned the use of disposable tableware
systems (afterward abolished) for disposable takeout through ordinances at events held in governmental
containers. At Starbucks, in particular, disposable cups facilities.
are not used in all stores in principle, regardless of store Since the 1990s, the use of reusable plastic containers
size. The measures taken by Starbucks, which include the has been in place at large-scale facilities and event sites,
design and use of original glass mugs for cold beverages (a such as soccer stadiums, exhibition centres, and outdoor
first for Starbucks worldwide), are leading the industry. music events. Eco-businesses have also popped up that
Civic groups play a key role as local governmental provide services from the loan of such items, to collection
partners in carrying out mediation for these types of and cleaning. These actions have resulted in a 60%
voluntary agreements, conducting monitoring activities reduction of waste at soccer stadiums.
to ensure compliance, and improving systems.
Promotion of actions for the use of
Control of the use of disposable food reusable cups at events in Japan
containers in Germany
Although a national system to regulate the use of
In Germany, when beverages are sold at various event disposable items is not in place in Japan, activities at local
sites, including traditional beer and wine festivals, they events are carried out to reduce the use of disposable
are poured into mugs and glasses and sold under a deposit tableware.
system, not as disposable tableware. Many cities, town,

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 15

 In 2001, the Global Environmental Forum (GEF)
visited and inspected a successful case on the use of
reusable cups in Germany (Cup Concept), which won
the highest award from a public advertisement of policy
recommendations organised by the Ministry of the
Environment. A study on the enforcement of the use of
reusable cups was developed based on this, and resulted
in the introduction of reusable cups at soccer stadiums
in Oita, Yokohama, and Niigata prefectures. In addition,
organisations that are involved in the introduction of
reusable tableware at local events, and organisations that
loan out reusable tableware started to emerge. Currently,
45 organisations nationwide are part of a network of
groups promoting the use of reusable tableware.
The track record of these organisations has increased
greatly over the years: 570,000 items loaned out for 584
events in 2005 and 2,360,000 items loaned out for 1,957
events in 2010. One event that was the largest in terms of
use was “apbank fes” in July 2011, where 140,000 plates,
100,000 cups, and a total of 240,000 items were used.
With the use of these items at more events and facilities,
the development of an efficient and sanitary cleaning
system is also expected.

Collection Point of Reuse Cups

and Plates at a Festival Event
(Photo by FoE Japan)

Draft beer sold in reuse cup

at Nissan Stadium (copyright:
Global Environmental Forum)

16 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

IV. Movements to Reduce

the Use of PET Bottles
and Review Policies on
Tap Water
The number of PET bottles (bottles for beverages made from plastic) produced is on the rise
in all countries. Even with recycling, there are still a number of environmental impacts that are
generated from the production of bottles, the transportation of beverages, refrigeration and
sales, recycling, and the lifecycle of the product from production to disposal.
In many countries that have water service infrastructure in place and can provide safe and
high-quality tap water, there are measures and campaigns being implemented to reduce the
use of PET bottles, and review and promote the use of tap water.

participating stores are

United States published on a map on
the internet, and can be
1) Ban public purchase by local governments and searched using a smart
declaration to review the importance of tap water phone or other device.
A declaration to review the importance of tap water was This campaign has been
adopted at the U.S. Conference of Mayors in June 2006. expanded to other areas TAP IT map of water spots in
The declaration confirmed the importance of tap water, of the United States. New York City
with local governments responsible for taking measures
against increases in the consumption of bottled beverages 3) Expansion and review of drinking fountains in
and rising environmental impacts, as the main body public spaces
offering safe and quality tap water to consumers. In 2008, In New York City, Pilot Project, a group of experts that
local governments stopped the supply of bottled water to are work with original and sustainable urban designs,
government and resolved to promote the use of tap water. planned to create attractive urban spaces and reduce
Of the local governments in the U.S., the Mayor of the environmental impacts from the use of PET bottles by
City of Los Angeles submitted an official notice in 1997 promoting the use of public tap water and water fountains.
banning the supply of bottled water from the city’s budget, The group set up 100 new public water fountains and
and supply has since stopped. In response to resolutions at launched the “100 Fountains” design competition. The
the 2007 and 2008 U.S. Conference of Mayors, a number group also carries out activities, such as the “Respect for
of cities and states, including San Francisco (from 2007), Fountains” performance held in parks in mid-summer,
New York (from 2008), and the State of New York (from which provides an opportunity to promote the “OUR
2009) have banned the public purchase of bottled water. WATER” awareness campaign, to help people become
aware.
2) TAP IT Campaign
In 2008, activities to provide water services (refill 4) Student campaigns at universities and increase in
water bottles) at cafes and restaurants started for water supply systems
persons bringing their own water bottles. The names of Activities for tap water promotional campaigns by

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 17

 universities and students, as well as increasing water supply creation of a low-carbon society. Official notifications
systems for canteens, are moving ahead at universities in continue to be issued even today.
various parts of the United States.
A campaign by eco-club students called “Take Back 2) Tap water promotion in London
the Tap” started at Portland State University in Oregon In 2008, the Mayor of London commented that PET
in 2008. The campaign featured awareness activities that bottled water is 500 times more expensive than tap water,
informed students of the environmental impacts from and emits 300 times more CO2 emissions. This comment
the use of PET bottles. With the sales of water bottles was the start of the city’s tap water promotional campaign.
which were inexpensive, the university converted its The Thames Water “London on Tap” campaign featured
drinking water coolers to types that could supply bottled a design contest for a carafe in 2008 in order to promote
water using the profits from these sales. An evaluation of the supply of tap water in city restaurants. The winning
these activities resulted in an increase in the number of entry was manufactured as London’s original carafe and
bottled water supply coolers in the university, and today, recommended for use at the city’s restaurants. In addition,
you can see many students on campus with their own the city increased the number of drinking fountains in
water bottles. In addition, Loyola University in Chicago, city parks, for example, as the city prepared for the 2012
Illinois, banned the sale of bottled water on-campus from London Olympics.
the fall of 2012,
after increasing the
number of water Australia
supply coolers in the
university and calling 1) Regulations banning the sale of
for students and bottled water in cities
faculty to use water Bundanoon, a small town with a population of 2,500 in
bottles and tap water. the suburbs of Sydney, approved a ban on the sales of PET
Universities taking bottled water in the town with an overwhelming majority
similar measures are The number of water coolers that provide
water for water bottles are on the rise in
obtained in a referendum, and enacted an ordinance in
on the rise. U.S. universities 2009. Water fountains and towers are installed here and
there in the town, which can be used by everyone free
5) Ban sales of beverages in plastic bottles in of charge. Although the origins of this movement lie
national parks in the planning of major companies to develop sales of
The sale of bottled water has been banned in the Grand bottled water using the clean groundwater of this area, it
Canyon National Park since 2012 in order to cope with has attracted global attention as the world’s first decision
the increase of PET bottles that make up 20% of the taken from the perspective of reducing environmental
waste thrown away in the park. In connection with this, impacts and promoting attractive city planning.
a number of water stations that use spring water have
been installed in the park, and park officials are calling
for visitors to bring their own water bottles to use at these Japan
water stations. The sale of bottled water has similarly been
banned at Zion National Park in Utah and the Hawaii In Japan, as well, the number of local governments that
Volcanoes National Park. are carrying out actions to control the use of bottled
beverages and promote the use of personal bottles is on
the rise. There are also a number of measures and actions
UK that target tea, since the use of both tea and water are a
cause for the increase in PET bottles.
1) Ban procurement of bottled water for ministerial/
government meetings 1) Ban on the use of bottled beverages in
With the release of the UK Sustainability Report in local governmental meetings
2008, Secretary of State for the Environment, Hillary In recent years, it has become commonplace for bottled
Ben, announced a governmental plan to ban the use of tea and water to be used at meetings of governmental
PET bottled drinking water at government/ministerial ministries and local governments. However, some local
meetings, as the UK moves along its path towards the governments have instituted a ban on the use of bottled

18 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

tea and water from the perspective of environmental 4) Water sales at drink dispensers
protection, and instead, offer local tap water and tea in Drink dispensers that are installed in drink bars at
reusable bottles. cafeterias and family restaurants have a direct water
Tea in PET bottles is not used in Iida city in Nagano connection. This type of connection results in sharply
prefecture. Rather, local tap water from the southern lower impacts on the environment during its lifecycle, in
Alps of Japan is offered to meeting attendees in the city’s comparison with the same drink in a PET bottle because
original reusable bottles and cups. In Ikoma city in Nara water and concentrates can be mixed on the spot.
prefecture, a ban on the use of disposable bottles, such From June to November 2009, a demonstration
as PET bottles, at meetings was instituted in 2010 and “eco-convenience store” was set up in the lobby of city
positioned within the city’s environmental management hall in Kyoto with cooperation from Lawson, Inc. and
system. In January 2013, the city started to recommend Coca Cola, Inc. Shopping bags were not available in this
the use of Daiwa tea in reusable bottles. store, and all drinks were sold from a drink dispenser for
customers who brought their own bottles. A result of
2) Ban on drink vending machines in public facilities this demonstration project, which was highly evaluated
Japan has the highest number of vending machines per by its customers, indicated the potential for the sales of
area in the world. The number of vending machines beverages from drink dispensers at convenience stores. In
directly correlates to the increase in PET bottles. addition, an approximate 77% reduction in greenhouse
As part of local governmental initiatives for the gas emissions was reported from convenience stores that
environment, local governments have taken action to sold drinks from drink dispensers, in comparison with the
ban the installation of drink vending machines in public usual sales of bottled drinks at convenience stores.
facilities.
Toyota city in Aichi prefecture removed drink 5) Installation of attractive water fountains
vending machines one-by-one from city hall and public The waterworks bureau in
facilities that are managed by the city starting in 1998, every city in Japan carries
as part of the city’s policies on global warming (Today, out various PR activities to
some vending machines have been reinstated.) Ikoma city promote the use of tap water.
in Nara prefecture banned drink vending machines in Although many campaigns
government offices and public facilities managed by the have been carried out to date,
city starting in 2008. Tokaimura in Ibaraki prefecture such as filling up PET bottles
banned drink vending machines at village offices and with tap water, in recent years,
all public facilities in July 2011 from the perspective of appealing water fountains
electricity conservation measures. have been installed, and
measures have been put into Water fountain at Kobe Kitano
(in front of Kazamidorinoyakata)
3) “My Bottle” campaigns and “tea fountains” place that promote drinking (Photo courtesy of Kobe
Actions to increase bases that offer drink services to water directly from the tap. Waterworks Bureau)
people who bring their own personal water bottles are on A designer water fountain was installed in an open
the rise in different areas, including the Ministry of the space in front of the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan, which is
Environment’s “My Bottle, My Cup” campaign. a tourist spot, by the Kobe Waterworks Bureau in July
In Minamata city in Kumamoto prefecture, “tea 2010. A design contest was organised for the Kitano water
fountains” are being installed in various places throughout fountain, and a design was selected from 130 applications
the city for people using their own water bottles to brew from both within and outside the city that incorporated
local tea on the spot using aspects of the surrounding scenery. The fountain in Arima
local water. Tea is offered Spa is a collaborative design with local Kobe Design
at the inexpensive price University. Drinking water coolers are built-in, which
of JPY 100, which is provides visitors with delicious tap water. A directory,
actually less than bottled sightseeing map, and road map have been set up where the
tea. This is gentle on the water fountain is installed to make it easier for tourists to
wallet, does not produce find what they are looking for. In addition, a social water
waste, and can aid local fountain has been installed on the grounds of elementary
industries. schools which also serve as disaster-prevention facilities,
Tea spot in Minamata
and to improve the environment to help children become

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 19

 familiar with tap water in their daily lives. In addition, (2) Increasing water oases in the city
a water fountain with a built-in water cooler has been City planning that is gentle and rich for both people and
installed in the open space in front of JR Okayama the earth is proposed by increasing the number of water
Station, which lets visitors taste the local tap water. fountains around the city, at stations, and in public spaces
that can be used freely by anyone, as well as the number
6) Sui Do! (Tap Water Do!) campaign of “city oases” at cafes, for example, that offer water and
FoE Japan develops sample data drinks to customers that bring their own personal bottles.
that simply shows comparisons of The proposal encourages the excavation and installation
environmental impacts from the use of of water fountains in different areas, and information on
water in PET bottles and from the tap in these oases is published on maps on websites.
cooperation with the Hirao Laboratory From FY 2012, attractive water fountains and water
of the University of Tokyo. This data was supply points have been introduced both inside and
presented at a seminar organised in March 2010 together outside Japan as part of the “Oasis-based City Planning”
with examples of activities to reduce the use of PET campaign. The initiative looks at how to increase the
bottles and promote the use of tap water in both Japan number of oases and support activities in cooperation
and overseas. The Sui Do! (Tap Water Do!) campaign with the local government and organisations that are
started in June of the same year to encourage a reduction involved in local activities.
in environmental impacts and social costs by choosing tap
(3) Extending lifestyles that are not dependent on
water over bottled beverages, such as PET bottles.
bottled drinks
The campaign was developed on three pillars: (1)
This proposal promotes comfortable lifestyles that are
expanding local government initiatives, (2) increasing
not reliant on bottled drinks through the dissemination
water oases in the city, and (3) extending lifestyles that are
of information at events and on websites. In 2010, the
not reliant on bottled drinks.
“Sui Do! Café” series was organised where professionals
(1) Expanding local government initiatives are on hand to teach the methods of brewing coffee, tea,
As the primary body that is responsible for supplying and Japanese tea, using local tap water. From 2012, the
safe and delicious tap water to city residents, the local “Sui Do!@Campus” campaign has been organised to
government is in a position to lead actions for residents to encourage students to bring their own water bottles and
reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions. install water supply points within university grounds.
Campaigns are carried out to put pressure on local
(Explanation of graph)
governments to expand initiatives, such as bans on the use
The graph compares CO 2 emissions throughout the
of bottled drinks at meetings, and reducing the number
lifecycle, and gives four examples of drinking water
of drink vending machines in government buildings
outside the home.
and public facilities. In addition, a local government
Bottled drinks consume much energy during transport
declaration was proposed and adopted at the “Local
and refrigerated sales, and have a major impact on the
Government Forum in Minamata on Aiming to Become
environment because recycling of these containers also
an Environmental Capital” organised in Minamata city
requires energy. This is ten times the amount of CO2
in November 2010 to promote the local production and
emissions when compared with cases where infrastructure
local consumption of water and reduce the use of bottled
such as water coolers and the use of personal water bottles
drinks. Today, 16 local governments are taking part in this
is encouraged.
initiative.
400
339
350 Comparison of CO2 Emission for drinking water (500 ml)
Estimation by Hirao Lab. Of University of Tokyo Compiled by FoE Japan
300
CO2 emission (g-CO2)

228
250 A Domestic mineral water in PET bottles from Production & transport of PET bottles
automatic vending machine Sales of water in PET bottles
200
150 B Imported mineral water in PET bottles from Supply of tap waters
automatic vending machine
Use of water cooler and purification machine
100
C Drinking tap water using water cooler Use of water containers
50 PET bottle recycling
8 7 D Drinking purified tap water from aluminum flasks
0
CO2 emission considering C02 avoidance
-50 from recycling of PET bottles
A B C D
Figure 2. Comparison of environmental impacts of drinking water from PET bottles and tap water

20 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

V. Community Building Focused

on Waste Prevention that
Contributes to Local/Regional
Revitalization in Japan
Lifecycles that do not generate garbage and do not ineffectually use the earth’s limited
resources can start locally. There is hidden potential to activate the local economy with
the promotion of waste prevention-based community building through communication where
the faces of local commerce and industries, as well as consumers, are visible.
In this section, some cases from Japanese cities are presented.

1. Eco-City Project on Waste Prevention 2) Composting of organic waste

With the cooperation of organic waste experts, composting
(Chigasaki Association of Stores) activities are carried out using land borrowed from the
city, and collecting organic waste from stores in the city’s
During the revision of the Large-Scale Retail Stores Law shopping district (perch, rice bran from rice shops, tofu
in 1999 of Japan, a plan to open a large-scale shopping residue from tofu shops). The produced compost is first
centre emerged, which seemed to threaten the survival used in planters in the city’s stopping district and for
of the Chigasaki shopping district in Chigasaki city, distribution at events. After, it is developed as an action
Kanagawa. Although the movements and actions for locally produced, locally consumed products, such as
against the opening (organised in cooperation between with residents growing vegetables using the compost.
the Chigasaki Association of Stores and local consumer
groups) was not successful, the “Eco-City Chigasaki” 3) Promoting “My Bag Shopping”
concept emerged where the store association and civic The eco-friendly shopping campaign started with the
groups could brainstorm about the next step to take in shopping district association. The Eco-City Chigasaki
community building to revitalize the city’s shopping My Bag Promotion Council was inaugurated in 2003
centre, and not solely focus on oppositional activities. with the participation of the Consumer Groups Liaison
Since 2011, numerous activities have been developed. Association, Large-scale Store Liaison Association,
This is a good example where businesses and consumers Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the local
that share the same vision can collaborate together to government. Consumers are encouraged to take part
create an attractive community. in “My Bag Day” held on the 5th, 15th, and 25th of
each month, and reduction rate statistics are tracked.
(1) Promotion of returnable bottles Currently, the “Every Day is My Bag Day” campaign is
Campaigns were organised to recommend the use of beer being carried out. Measures to create personal bags from
in reusable bottles at local liquor stores. The development unused umbrellas are also in place and are continuing with
and sale of returnable bottled wine, Chigasaki’s original the help of local consumer groups.
goods, started in 2002. There are two types of wine—red
and white—and if a bottle is returned, stores will return 4) Chigasaki Sunny Day Package
the JPY 50 deposit to their customers. Gifts in Japan tend to have too much packaging. The

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 21

 Sunny Day Package in coffee cans. Rice from rice shops in the shopping
campaign was devised district is delivered with a “commuting bag.” In addition,
for the use of simple “Sayamaen,” a tea house that has a role in promoting
wrapping based on the these measures, recommends making green tea simply by
concept of minimal shaking the powder in my own personal bottle, not only
wrapping to protect the by putting tea directly into a PET bottle. Eco-events are
global environment. In also held periodically in the shopping district.
2010, roll-like wrapping Wrapping paper and stickers for the
paper and stickers were Chigasaki Sunny Day Package 3. Nagoya 2R in Progress
manufactured based on a Chigasaki-original design
for distribution to participating stores (Ministry of the Since Nagoya city in Japan declared a “state of emergency
Environment model project). for garbage” in 1999 after abandoning a plan to establish
a disposal site at the Fujimae tidal flats, the city has taken
5) Community building for Bicycles leading actions to reduce waste. In addition to separation
There are many people that will purchase an inexpensive and recycling activities, Nagoya got an early start with
article, and throw it away soon after it breaks. However, waste prevention measures, such as the introduction of a
the purchase and repair of a bike at a local bicycle dealer charge system for plastic shopping bags in 2007.
can lead to waste prevention of large-scale waste over a long During the review process of the city’s basic plan for
period of time. With the cooperation of Miyata Industries the treatment of general waste, a number of community
which has its headquarters in Chigasaki, bicycles were projects were developed, and in 2008 and 2009, the
sold under the strong “Made in Chigasaki” brand with Nagoya 2R in Progress project was implemented to
lifetime maintenance checks guaranteed. promote the 2Rs: reduce and reuse. The project was
managed through an executive committee with support
2. Shopping using personal containers from Nagoya’s Waste Reduction Department of the
Environmental Affairs Bureau. FoE Japan also took part
at Hagoromo Shopping District in as a cooperating organisation.
Tachikawa city This project consisted of studies to promote reuse
at fast food restaurants and coffee shop chains in
Since 2003, a movement the city, information exchange with businesses, and
for shoppers to bring their encouragement of participation in voluntary declarations
own personal containers of stores that carry out the 2Rs. In the Nagoya 2R
has been in place at the Participation Declaration, a list and map to stores that
Hagoromo shopping district offer goods for people bringing their own containers
in Tachikawa city in Japan. (such as Tupperware), beverages for people bringing their
Women’s g roups in own bottles, and welcoming customers that bring their
the Tachikawa Shotengai own chopsticks was published online, and residents were
Shin Kumiai Reng okai encouraged to use these particular stores.
( Ta c h i k a w a S h o p p i n g
D i s t r i c t Pr o m o t i o n a l
Association) beg an by Food store measuring out miso 4. Yokohama:
talking about a part of the
paste in Tupperware containers
Yokohama 3R Dream (Slim)!
city’s environmental measures. When customers bring in
their own containers to participating stores, such as trays, Yokohama city, Japan, aims at the further reduction of
etc., in order to reduce waste, they receive incentives, such environmental impacts that are a result of waste treatment
as twice the number of point coupons, “Hello Chip,” for by promoting the 3Rs and actively carrying out actions
use in the shopping district. for waste reduction, in particular, in the Yokohama 3R
Participating stores include tea shops that sell tea by Dream (Slim)! Plan. This plan is the city’s basic plan for
pouring it into in a tea canister/caddy, grocery stores that the treatment of general waste from FY 2010 to 2025.
sell daily foods and miso paste by measuring the requested The Yokohama R (Reduce) Hiroba was established
amount in Tupperware containers, and coffee shops as system to promote cooperation between residents,
that sell ground coffee beans by measuring the amount businesses and the government. It has become the main

22 Reduction Policies and Initiatives

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

facility for the receipt and transmission of information and containers. Stores that submit registration forms are
through its website and events, and as a place for exchange published in a map online, and are introduced to the
through its supporter registration system. In addition, community. The types of stores that are registered include
the Yokohama R Committee was established with the grocery stores that offer a JPY 5 discount when a customer
participation of representatives from the community, refuses a plastic bag at the register, coffee stores that offer
businesses, and the government, and organises a JPY 50 discount for customers that bring their own bags
examination meetings to discuss the necessary matching for coffee, and cafes that do not normally offer takeout
and support for cooperating stakeholders and businesses services and are offering drinks at a discounted price or
in the development and implementation of new measures. free-of-charge to customers that bring their own bottles.
Activities include the spread and awareness of “My Currently, the city is preparing PR activities to encourage
Bottle Spots” in the city, sales events for perishable foods the use of 2R Eco-Spots to tourists who visit the ancient
which do not use food trays in cooperation between the city of Kamakura.
city wards and local supermarkets, and activities to reduce
the use of plastic bags and
disposable chopsticks with
the involvement of local
offices. My Bottle Spots
are increasing steadily,
and as of March 2013,
135 places have been
registered, including at
public facilities within the My Bottle Spot at a café in the
Chuo Ward Office (Photo courtesy
city and chain cafes. of City of Yokohama)

5. Kamakura: 2R Eco-Spot

Although the city of Kamakura in Kanagawa prefecture,

Japan, is rightly proud of its top national status for the Web-based map for shops participating
city’s waste recycling rates, Kamakura also has the most in 2R Eco-Spots in Kamakura
[Link]
amount of waste generated per capita in the country,
and understood that there was a limit to reducing waste
through recycling only. In March 2013, the city established
the “Committee to Recommend Waste Reduction
in Kamakura,” which was a collaborative organisation
made up of members of the community, businesses, and
the local government. A “Waste Prevention Team” was
established to promote actions to reduce the amount of
waste produced. The international environmental NGO,
FoE Japan also provided support from the draft plan of
these activities.
The Waste Prevention Team, a pillar for activities
that promote the development of new systems for waste
prevention through cooperation between sellers and
consumers, encouraged registration of 2R Eco-Spots
to small- and mid-sized businesses in the city that were
carrying out actions to minimize the use of unnecessary
containers and packaging and control the generation of
waste, such as by introducing incentives to reduce the
use of plastic bags, and offering services, including water
and tea to customers bringing their own personal bottles

Reduction Policies and Initiatives 23

 Recommendations
towards Waste Reduction
and Prevention
 I. Course of Action and
Fundamental Perspective
in the Creation of a
Waste Prevention System
With this document, the following recommendations are proposed for the creation of a waste
prevention system as a basic policy and course of action.

0) Minimising resources, energy, and environmental was offered in the past, and does not regard the use
impacts of charge systems as a decline in service level. In order
Guaranteeing global sustainability by maintaining the to accomplish this, it is also important to obtain the
ingoing/outgoing balance for one earth. cooperation of businesses and educate people with the
help of the local government and civic groups.
1) Aiming at reduction at unit-basis
(product, facility, household-level etc.) 5) Discovery and creation of a merit system, including
A system to control excess packaging and promote improvement of social infrastructure, city planning
environmental designs, such as through changes in and development, and maintaining people’s health
materials, is required. For example, the installation of water coolers and water
supply devices in business facilities and on university
2) Aiming at reduction of total sum of waste generated, grounds, as well as water fountains in different areas
not only at unit-basis (product, facility, household- around the city, is a chance that not only reduces
level etc.) but society as a whole the number of beverage containers/bottles, it also
Applying the brakes on mass consumption, i.e. avoiding improves customer service and the attractiveness of
the use of unnecessary containers and packaging and city planning.
products, is also necessary.
6) Develop local experience into a system for the
3) Aiming at reduction of environmental impacts, entire country to improve effectiveness
such as CO2 emissions in total lifecycles, not only Even if advanced measures exist in certain areas, such
reducing the consumption of resources as local governmental ordinances or local agreements,
For example, even if the weight of a beverage container it is difficult to spread these effects to other areas. It is
is reduced and the container is made thinner, there are also inefficient to apply measures to products that are
no changes in the impact on the environment from the circulated all over the country and to national chains.
transport of the liquid. While avoiding unnecessary Effectiveness can be expected with the development of
consumption, alternatives must also be presented, such systems at the national level.
as recommendations for changes to sales methods
(sales of contents only, for example), concentrations, 7) Thorough/complete disclosure of information to
and powders. promote measures/actions
Countries disclose the information necessary to
4) Develop a sense of values for services into something promote actions and measures, such as data on
that is suitable for the times environmental impacts and the names of businesses
Become a society which does not offer for free what that use a large amount of packaging. Businesses

26 Recommendations towards Waste Reduction and Prevention

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

disclose information for consumers, such as on the to purchase. Better goods and services can be offered if
company’s website, about waste reduction measures. communication is active between both the seller and
buyer. If targets are shared within the community and
8) Ensuring community participation in activities are united, the city can regain its vitality.
policy decision-making To achieve this, it is important for an effective
It is possible to make changes to the consumer waste prevention system to be developed by building
behaviour of many residents from the initial partnerships between producers, sellers, consumers,
examination stages of systems, and achieve policy and the local and national governments. For example,
objectives with the involvement of NGOs/NPOs that producers manufacture items that prevent the generation
have various expertise and experiences. of waste and are environmentally-friendly, and products
and sellers conduct sales that prevent waste from being
By building a new system from these courses of action, each generated. Consumers utilise data on environmental
member of society—consumers, businesses and the local impacts that are publicised by the national government
society—can enjoy the merits they present. For example, and businesses, to make “green” decisions; and the national
if the use of excess containers and packaging is banned, and local governments develop systems to promote waste
it will result not only in a reduction of environmental prevention while also securing public participation.
impacts, but will also help companies reduce costs and A society that is created in this way is the kind of
release consumers from the stress of selecting products society that we are aiming for.

Shit to society
Richer Society with Fewer Resources oriented towards
Shift to sustainable energy waste prevention
Comfortable, Healthy, Creative,
and service economy
Simple, Efficient, Rational,
Economic and Transparent

Partnership among stakeholders

Consumers
NGO/NPO Change in sense of values Businesses
in services as well as Shift to products
Proposal to consumption behavior and sales style
stakeholders, considering
coordination of environmental
collaboration, and awareness and
monitoring waste prevention
National and local governments
Policy making, implementation and
information disclosure on waste prevention

Figure 3. Collaboration for our target society

Recommendations towards Waste Reduction and Prevention 27

 II. Recommendations
1. Control of Excessive/Excess Effectiveness can be gauged by requiring businesses to
Packaging and Promotion of comply with proper packaging standards set up within
the national system. Penal regulations can be set up for
Eco-Friendly Designs products that use containers and packaging that exceeds
standards and when in violation of these standards,
Current situations and problems in Asian countries measures to prevent the final release of a product on the
The purchase of packaged food and items from market can be considered.
supermarkets has gained in popularity with the progress
of economic growth. Although systems for recycling of It is possible to also implement a system where best
containers and packaging are being improved and put practices are recommended based on simple, model
into place in different countries, there are examples of packaging and eco-friendly packaging for each product.
containers and packaging that are used excessively and
that act as advertising for a store, and which are difficult
to separate and recycle. Refills for detergent and
2. Policies/Measures to Reduce the
shampoo have gained popularity. In addition, Use of Single-use Shopping Bags
movements to ban the sale of trays, such as at meat (plastic and paper bags)
counters at supermarkets, are also on the rise.
Recommended course of action Current situations and problems in Asian countries
The methods of proper packaging are determined Purchasing food and products at supermarkets has
through communication between consumers and gained in popularity with economic growth, and the
producers, and monitored by society as a whole. use of plastic shopping bags has risen exponentially in
Asian areas.
Recommended policies and actions
When businesses carry out studies on customer In some countries, the free distribution of plastic
satisfaction for a product, they collect information not shopping bags has been banned by law.
only on customers’ opinions of the product itself, but In many countries, the government carries out support
also about its containers and packaging. activities to raise awareness. However, actual reduction
When a business group or national government create measures are left up to the introduction of voluntary
packaging standards for each product, they exchange incentives by retailers and voluntary actions by
ideas and opinions with consumers, governmental consumers, such as using personal shopping bags.
stakeholders, experts and NGOs/NPOs, and fully take Although the use of paper shopping bags has been a
into consideration the comparison of environmental target for regulations in Republic of Korea until 2008,
impacts from the perspective of the consumer. In the reduction measures and actions are not currently in
future, evaluations from the perspective of LCA would place at the national level.
also be useful. It is also possible to make standards
universally-known, and for society as a whole to Recommended course of action
monitor their execution. After a consumer’s way of thinking has permeated to
some extent, an effective system that clarifies reduction
National and local governments, consumer groups, and targets should be introduced.
NPOs/NGOs support business activities through
public awareness at shops and other areas so that Recommended policies and actions
consumers may be able to choose products with minimal The introduction of a system to tax or ban free
packaging. distribution is ultimately the decision of each country.
However, it is possible to conclude agreements or

28 Recommendations towards Waste Reduction and Prevention

 Best Practices and Recommendations for Waste Reduction
Towards Sustainable Consumption

impose legal requirements on businesses that use Recommended course of action

particularly large amounts of packaging or businesses Businesses should limit the offering of containers and
that are not promoting reduction activities, such as packaging and the use of disposable items that are
target settings, reporting, and information disclosure to discarded after a short period of use by promoting a
reduce the use of excessive packaging, shift to alternatives.
It is advisable to decide what methods to take to achieve Recommended policies and actions
targets (charge systems, discount systems/point systems For example, disposable containers currently used in
for refusal to use bags) through businesses directly fast food restaurants should be classified as disposable
communicating with consumers themselves. containers, and businesses should be required to
implement actions to reduce their use.
It is necessary to consider measures to levy a fee or ban
the free distribution of bags as a security measure, to As with reductions in the number of times towels and
prepare for times where objectives may not be achieved sheets are washed, it would be possible to offer a system
for long periods of time. where toothbrushes at hotels are sold only to customers
who want them, as part of eco-hotel measures.
In cases where the system is institutionalised at the
national level, it is necessary to consider methods/
techniques based on a consideration/examination of 4. Promoting Reductions in the Use of
how far to extend target industries (only large-scale Single-use Cups and Plates at Events
retailers or all retailers), the type of bags to target
(should it include PBP, biodegradable plant-based
Current situations and problems in Asian countries
plastic, paper bags), monitoring methods, and penalties
Many festivals and events use disposable cups and plates
for violations.
for food and beverages, which generates a lot of garbage
over a short period of time.
3. Controlling the Use of Single-use In Japan, actions to reduce the use of disposable cups
Items (such as paper cups) and plates started about ten years ago. Organisations
that lend out reusable cups and plates for events have
Current situations and problems in Asian countries sprung up in different areas, and contribute to the
Disposable paper and plastic cups used in fast food reduction of environmental impacts from events and
establishments, and disposable toothbrushes and razors environmental education.
set out in hotel rooms are used once for a short period
Recommended course of action
of time, and then discarded. Many people may feel this
The eating and drinking culture at events shifts to one
is an unnecessary waste, and however, the only country
with a low environmental impact.
to promote actions to reduce the use of these items and
impose requirements on businesses is Republic of Recommended actions
Korea. It is possible to create a system that allows local
governments to support the use of reusable tableware,
In particular, large fast food chains and coffee shops
and which satisfies fixed requirements, and that can
that have increased the number of stores in different
utilise existing cleaning equipment and tableware at
countries are still using disposable paper and plastic
places that provide food.
cups in stores.
Local actions and voluntary measures by businesses are
limited in inhibiting the impacts from the use of
5. Re-examining the Expansion and
disposable items. Promotion of Traditional Sales and
The difference in the recognition that exists between
Purchasing Practices
businesses and consumers of what “service” means is
Current situations and problems in Asian countries
also considered to be a reason behind the neglect of this
Even if food or everyday household dishes that are sold
problem.
at supermarkets and department stores are displayed in

Recommendations towards Waste Reduction and Prevention 29

 containers that are filled and produced in factories, 7. Ensure Public Participation in
most stores will put those same items in additional
plastic containers or packaging. However, in many
Policy Decision Making
Asian countries, the distance between sellers and buyers Current knowledge and problems
in the community is quite close, and traditional sales The participation of many residents is indispensable in
practices are still in place, such as sales without any the operation of the structure of the 3Rs. In particular,
packaging or requiring that customers bring their own it is important to have the participation of various
containers for however much of an item they need. residents from the planning phase of the development
Such sales practices that have been lost in developed of a system in order to create a shift in people’s lifestyles
countries need to be re-examined. (including control of consumption) to one that prevents
Recommended course of action waste from being generated.
Expand and promote the use of traditional sales and Recommended course of action
purchasing practices. Ensure public participation in policy decision making
Recommended actions for the 3Rs and waste prevention.
It is necessary to thoroughly consider hygienic Policies to be introduced (Recommended policies)
management when not using packaging or using At places where 3R policies are deliberated, the balance
returnable containers. However, it is possible to open between businesses and other stakeholders must be
up the lines of communication between both sellers and maintained and participation by NGOs/NPOs with
buyers in local communities where people’s faces can be expertise and experience must be secured to be the voice
seen, and tie these selling and purchasing practices to of the city’s residents. The selection of standards and
the revitalisation of community development. processes must also be clear.
With the inclusion of civic groups that carry out local
6. Establishing 3R Promotion activities on the 3Rs in the decision making process of
Centres and Local 3R Promotional local governments, a place to study, learn, and discuss
specific issues on the creation of systems should be
Committees established with the participation of various residents.

Current situations and problems

Although the separation and recycling of waste in local
3R activities is carried out nationally, there are a number
of areas that do not have the necessary information and
know-how to promote waste prevention measures.
Recommended course of action
Establishment of a system for the development of
human resources to achieve effective cooperation
between stakeholders.
Policies to be introduced (Recommended policies)
Establish centres to promote the 3Rs in important cities
that promote the 3Rs. The centres will build a support
organisation for activities of local 3R promotional
committees that are made up of cooperation between
the local government, businesses and residents in the
community. This system will make it possible to carry
out effective studies and awareness activities as it
develops human resources with expert knowledge and
the capacity to coordinate activities and play an active
role in the community.

30 Recommendations towards Waste Reduction and Prevention

The report is based on a research project of the Asia
Resource Circulation Policy Research Group,
coordinated by Institute for Global Environmental
Strategies and funded by the FY 2013 Asia Resource
Circulation Research Project commissioned
by Ministry of the Environment of Japan (MOEJ)

Friends of the Earth Japan (FoE Japan)

3-30-22-203 Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0014
TEL: (+81)3-6907-7217 FAX: (+81)3-6907-7219
Email: tsukaisutezero@[Link]
URL: [Link]

Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES)

2108-11, Kamiyamaguchi, Hayama, Kanagawa, 240-0115, JAPAN
TEL: +81-46-855-3720 FAX: +81-46-855-3709
Email: iges@[Link]
URL: [Link]