Things to do for Earth Day 2024 in Japan

Earth Day 2024, which takes place on April 22 annually and globally, is fast approaching. It is the world’s largest gathering to address the health of our planet. Since its launch in 1970, one billion people from 192 countries have participated in Earth Day events.

The year, Earth Day calls for a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040. Here are some examples of what people can do in Japan to join this cause.

1. Visit Earth Day events!

Earth Day events are planned in major cities across Japan (see the map below). In Tokyo, the celebrations span over two weekends. On April 13 and 14, there will be an outdoor concert in Yoyogi Park. Food stalls, fun learning activities for families and disaster preparedness sessions will be available as well. On April 20 and 21, another market in Miyashita Park will feature artists selling handmade items and a traditional dance for all to jump in.

2. Plogging = Jogging + Trash collection

Alpen Group Ltd, a sports and outdoor equipment company headquartered in Nagoya, is hosting “Plogging,” a Swedish word that combines jogging and ‘PlockaUpp’ (trash picking)’ on April 7 in honor of Earth Day. In Tokyo and Fukuoka, up to 50 participants can sign up for a 2.5-hour event that burns extra calories, reduces stress levels and contributes to a better environment.

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3. Dropoff clothing for second life!

Aeon Mall, Japan’s one of major retail companies, will collect old clothing at its store locations from April 12 to 22 for textile reusing and recycling. The “Happy Clothing Relay” initiative aims to collect 40 tons of old clothing this year, as an antidote to the wasteful industry practice. Annually, more than 450,000 tons of clothes are discarded in Japan, and the amount has been on a steady increase.

Strolling through festive markets, working out for trash collection, or taking donatable items out of spring closet cleaning, Earth Day provides a range of opportunities to be kind to our planet and each other.