GOMI-MAP app to facilitate proper waste disposal for users in Japan

To achieve a circular economy where resources are kept within the system, we need to learn how to deal with our waste through recycling, reusing, upcycling, etc. Yet, it is not always easy to identify where to bring our waste to. For example, there are different places to gather old cardboard, batteries and small electronic devices. But searching for the information takes time and effort, even with search engines.

GOMI-MAP is a new web app for users to find out where to dispose of their waste in Japan. It uses data and technology to deliver accurate location and carbon emission information for waste disposal in Japan. You can find locations to recycle home appliances, dispose of batteries safely, or use the app to discover proper places that can manage your used ink cartridges. Not sure what to do with milk cartons or tempura oil? GOMI-MAP also has you covered!

Many residential areas in Japan ask their residents to separate their waste into combustible and non-combustible categories only. While it is convenient for people, it doesn’t create awareness of what they are consuming. It becomes a form of irresponsible consumption because, as consumers, they do not learn what materials are in the products they use, and do not learn how to dispose of them properly. Sometimes the language barrier doesn’t help non-Japanese speakers, too, especially where to bring the items or what to do with items that have composite materials.

Rather than letting consumers succumb to the simple way of dividing garbage into burnable or non-burnable, GOMI-MAP is making personal recycling easier by removing the research process. It includes information like where to bring each type of recyclables, the costs, and when the facilities are open. GOMI-MAP wants to redirect waste away from landfills and incinerators, thus promoting responsible waste disposal and reducing carbon emissions.

GOMI-MAP team wants to include features like helping users track and share their carbon emissions in the future. It also wants to help businesses manage their waste by identifying cost-effective disposal, and even include the possibility of selling the waste as valuable resources. The GOMI-MAP team is currently considering using blockchain technology to bring transparency to the process too.

The app is developed by Raphael Niecko and Brian Pham, who is also the MD of Australia-based software company Corplite. This new app currently focuses on the Tokyo, Kawasaki and Yokohama regions, with a few additions in the Tohoku region. Users will find this much easier to navigate than the city hall databases. Try it out for yourself here!