Japanese festivals take a step toward zero waste

Summer is the season for festivals, known as “matsuri“, in Japan. These festivals vary significantly from city to city, but they all share two important values: community and strong bonds among people. The summer culture in Japan has been largely absent in many places over the past three years due to the pandemic. Thankfully, these vibrant festivals gradually returned last year, and almost all will be return this year after many restrictions have been lifted. They undoubtedly captivate not only tourists from overseas but also many Japanese.

However, behind the festivities, there is a pressing issue: the mountains of trash left behind. The waste is primarily composed of food scraps, single-use plates, and plastic bottles.

Local government takes action to address waste

Kyoto, a city deeply concerned about environmental issues, has taken steps to address this problem. The city now registers and awards events as certified eco-friendly if they meet the following five criteria: reducing waste and promoting recycling, conserving energy and resources, selling and purchasing eco-friendly items, encouraging sustainable transportation to reduce carbon emissions, and raising environmental awareness among participants. As the city’s records indicate, 25 events have been certified for this year.

Two of Japan’s three great festivals sparks sustainable practices

The Gion Festival, celebrated as one of Japan’s three great festivals, has been at the forefront of sustainable practices. Beginning in 2014, the festival started using reusable dishes and cups in collaboration with vendors and implemented a detailed garbage separation program. According to data, the volume of trash was approximately 57,330 kilograms in 2013, but it was reduced to 33,570 kilograms in 2022.

This initiative inspired another of Japan’s great festivals, the Tenjin Festival in Osaka, to adopt similar practices.

Discover more eco-conscious festivals and events

The following three events also aim to educate and engage attendees in sustainable practices to protect and restore Mother Nature.

Earth Rhythm Market

With a mission to become the largest sustainable and zero-waste event in Japan, the Earth Rhythm Market connects people of all ages, from children to adults. Participants are encouraged to bring their own containers, cutlery, and water bottles in alignment with the event’s mission. If they don’t bring their own, reusable items are provided. The event is also vegan-friendly, recognizing the environmental benefits of plant-based diets.

Ethical Vegan Fest

 

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The Ethical Vegan Fest is built on three pillars: animal rights, ecology, and health. The festival features lectures and exhibitions on ethical and environmental issues, as well as live performances by vegan musicians. Like the Earth Rhythm Market, participants are encouraged to bring their own containers and cutlery to support the goal of zero waste.

Kyoto Onpaku

Organized by Kururi, one of Japan’s renowned rock bands, the Kyoto Onpaku (Music Festival) has taken place annually since 2007. With a focus on environment, culture, and music, the festival features quality performances from artists both nationally and internationally. Last year, for example, they collaborated with Mumokuteki Cafe & Foods to create delicious vegan ice cream using by-products like sake lees and Azuki bean skins, and established a compost area in Umekoji Park to support a circular economy.

Accelerating environmental awareness through Japanese festivals

Excessive waste at Japanese festivals is still a reality. However, the dedicated actions taken at these events can have a significant impact on changing society for the better. As a first step, consider attending festivals that are mindful of their environmental footprint and allow you to celebrate guilt-free this summer.

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