Zenbird Editorial TeamWhy are there vending machines literally on every corner of Japan, and yet so little litter?
The difference can be jarring when you see vending machines almost everywhere, and realise the surprising absence of rubbish bins. Some tourists find themselves having garbage but with no place to throw, ending up confused on what to do!
However, it is not as mysterious as it seems. There are a number of small efforts that build up to this admirable phenomenon.
First off, next to almost every vending machine in Japan, there are recycling boxes specifically for used beverage containers (including both PET bottles and aluminum cans). While vending machines are convenient for consumption, recycling is also made convenient. Also, these recycling boxes are managed and maintained by specialized companies that also handle the upkeep of the vending machines, which plays an effective part in the infrastructure.
Furthermore, Japan is well-known for its waste management systems, backed by industry guidelines and policies like The Basic Act for Establishing a Sound Material-Cycle Society and Circular Economy Vision 2020.
Thirdly, littering just doesn’t seem to be on the cards of most Japanese people. They generally have a strong sense of responsibility when it comes to waste disposal. It is common for individuals to take their trash home with them if public trash cans are not available. This cultural practice helps keep public spaces clean. (and may we argue, that it is a cultural history passed down from ancient Japan!)
And to support that cultural practice, education and awareness are on-going efforts to ingrain environmental consciousness and waste management into the public. Many municipalities go beyond just the traditional 3Rs to promote better recycling patterns. Citizens are also used to the messaging, as responsible waste separation is part of life at home.
So it’s not so much of a mystery, as to structural, cultural, and educational efforts that contribute to the clean streets of Japan.
