Discovering a Sustainable Future from Japan

Greenpeace Japan launches “Goodbye Waste” map to reduce plastic waste

Last Friday, Greenpeace Japan released a new service online, “Goodbye Waste,” a map where users can find stores so they can practice zero waste!

Banner for Greenpeace Japan's Goodbye Waste map
(Image: Greenpeace Japan)

In a survey conducted last October, Greenpeace Japan found out that 80% of the correspondents shared the sentiment that there are too many unnecessary, disposable plastic products and packaging. Another 70% also said they would choose an alternative to these plastics if available.

And the sentiment reflects the dire plastic problem Japan has. 47% of Japan’s waste is plastic containers and packaging, no doubt worsened by the growing takeout culture too. Consumers are beginning to demand plastic-free alternatives.

Greenpeace Japan wants to provide a solution to that. With the Goodbye Waste map, which can be accessed through the computer or smartphone, users can find the nearest alternatives. These alternatives include bringing your personal tumblers for drinks or containers for food, and shopping at places where you can buy items by weight or volume.

Furthermore, Greenpeace Japan encourages users and store owners to register locations not found on their map, subject to the management’s check and approval.

(Image: Greenpeace Japan)

The Greenpeace Japan Community Building Manager, Chiya Gido, shares, “We have created an online map that is free to use by anyone nationwide. Many will use this map to shop, and new stores will be registered, making the site even more fulfilling to use. Together with everyone in Japan, we want to realize a circular society without disposable waste.”

A commemorative event will be held on May 22 to celebrate the launch of the Goodbye Waste map.

[Website] Goodbye Waste Map
[Reference] Greenpeace Japan

Written by
Roger Ong

Editor-in-Chief for Zenbird Media. Interest in social good, especially in children issues. Bilingual editor bridging the gap between English and Japanese for the benefit of changemakers.

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Written by Roger Ong