Renet Japan expands e-waste recycling network to 771 municipalities

Renet Japan Group Inc. has expanded its home pickup recycling network for used computers and small appliances to 771 municipalities, allowing the service to cover a population of approximately 91.51 million people across Japan and promoting the recovery of valuable metals from “urban mines.”

Renet Japan became the first nationwide certified operator in 2014. Its service allows residents to book a collection online, after which Sagawa Express collects the items directly from their homes. While a standard collection fee applies, the service is free of charge for any box that includes a used personal computer.

Security remains a priority for the service, as computers often contain sensitive personal data. The company provides free data deletion software to users and offers a professional deletion service with certificates for an additional fee. Once collected, items are transported to certified facilities where they are processed with full traceability. The recycling process covers more than 400 types of electronic items, provided they fit within a standard box weighing up to 20 kilograms.

The initiative also incorporates a social welfare model known as “Kanko-Renkei,” or the environment-welfare collaboration. Approximately 30 individuals with intellectual disabilities are employed at the company’s secure facilities to manually dismantle the collected electronics. This manual process ensures high-quality resource separation while creating stable employment opportunities. The company intends to expand this social model as collection volumes increase.

Customer feedback indicates a high level of satisfaction with the convenience of the service. According to company surveys, 98 per cent of users found the home pickup more convenient than standard municipal waste collection, and the same percentage expressed a desire to use the service again. Renet Japan Recycle aims to continue its collaboration with local governments to promote a circular economy through the effective use of limited resources.