Fukuoka

♻️

Waste Management

Overview of garbage disposal, recycling programs, and collection schedules in Fukuoka.

Sections

1. Overview of Waste Management in Fukuoka

Fukuoka, like most cities in Japan, has a strict and detailed waste management system. Residents and businesses are required to sort their waste into specific categories and follow designated collection schedules. The city provides clear guidelines to ensure proper disposal, and failure to comply can result in fines or uncollected waste.

2. Waste Categories

In Fukuoka, waste is divided into the following main categories:

A. Burnable Waste (燃えるごみ / Moeru Gomi)

  • Examples: Kitchen waste, paper, small wooden items, rubber, leather, and small amounts of plastic that cannot be recycled.
  • Disposal: Place in designated burnable waste bags (red bags).
  • Collection Frequency: Twice a week.

B. Non-Burnable Waste (燃えないごみ / Moenai Gomi)

  • Examples: Glass, ceramics, metal items, small appliances, and other non-combustible materials.
  • Disposal: Place in designated non-burnable waste bags (blue bags).
  • Collection Frequency: Twice a month.

C. Recyclable Waste (資源ごみ / Shigen Gomi)

Recyclables are further divided into subcategories:

  1. Cans, Bottles, and PET Bottles:
    • Examples: Aluminum cans, glass bottles, and plastic bottles with the PET symbol.
    • Disposal: Rinse items and place them in transparent or semi-transparent bags.
    • Collection Frequency: Once a week.
  2. Paper and Cardboard:
    • Examples: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes, and paper cartons.
    • Disposal: Tie with string into bundles or place in designated collection areas.
    • Collection Frequency: Once a week.
  3. Plastic Containers and Packaging:
    • Examples: Plastic trays, packaging, and bags with the recycling symbol.
    • Disposal: Rinse and place in transparent or semi-transparent bags.
    • Collection Frequency: Once a week.

D. Oversized Waste (粗大ごみ / Sodai Gomi)

  • Examples: Furniture, large appliances, bicycles, and other items that do not fit in standard bags.
  • Disposal: Requires a reservation for pickup and the purchase of a disposal ticket (粗大ごみ処理券 / Sodai Gomi Shoriken).
  • Collection Frequency: By appointment only.

E. Hazardous Waste

  • Examples: Batteries, fluorescent tubes, lighters, and spray cans.
  • Disposal: Follow specific instructions provided by the city. Some items may need to be taken to designated drop-off points.

3. Sorting Procedures

Proper sorting is crucial in Fukuoka. Here are some general tips:

  • Rinse recyclables: Ensure all recyclable items are clean and free of food residue.
  • Remove caps and labels: For PET bottles, remove the caps and labels before disposal.
  • Use designated bags: Purchase the correct waste bags (red for burnable, blue for non-burnable) from supermarkets or convenience stores.
  • Bundle paper items: Tie newspapers, magazines, and cardboard into bundles with string.

4. Collection Schedules

  • Burnable Waste: Collected twice a week (specific days depend on your neighborhood).
  • Non-Burnable Waste: Collected twice a month.
  • Recyclables: Collected weekly, with different days for cans/bottles, paper, and plastics.
  • Oversized Waste: Collected by appointment only.

To find the exact collection days for your area, refer to the waste collection calendar provided by your local ward office (区役所 / Kuyakusho) or check the Fukuoka City website.

5. Associated Costs

  • Designated Bags: The cost of designated waste bags varies depending on size and type. For example:
    • Small bags: ~¥200 for a pack of 10.
    • Medium bags: ~¥300 for a pack of 10.
    • Large bags: ~¥500 for a pack of 10.
  • Oversized Waste Tickets: The cost depends on the item, typically ranging from ¥200 to ¥1,000 per item. Tickets can be purchased at convenience stores or post offices.

6. Important Local Considerations

  • Language Barriers: Waste disposal instructions are often provided in Japanese. However, Fukuoka City offers multilingual guides (including English, Chinese, and Korean) to help foreign residents and visitors understand the system.
  • Community Responsibility: Waste collection points are shared by the community. Ensure your waste is placed out on the correct day and time (usually early morning or the night before).
  • Illegal Dumping: Leaving waste in unauthorized areas or on the wrong day is considered illegal and can result in fines.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: During holidays like New Year’s, collection schedules may change. Check announcements from the city or your ward office.

7. Cultural Norms

  • Cleanliness: Japanese culture places a high value on cleanliness and proper waste disposal. Following the rules is seen as a sign of respect for the community.
  • Recycling Awareness: Recycling is deeply ingrained in daily life. Take the time to sort your waste correctly.
  • Politeness: If you are unsure about disposal procedures, ask a neighbor or contact your ward office. Locals are generally helpful and appreciate the effort to follow the rules.

8. Resources for Assistance

  • Fukuoka City Website: The official website provides detailed waste management guides and collection calendars.
  • Ward Offices (区役所 / Kuyakusho): Visit your local ward office for printed guides, calendars, and assistance.
  • Fukuoka City Call Center: For inquiries, call 092-733-3333 (multilingual support available).

By following these guidelines, you can easily navigate Fukuoka’s waste management system and contribute to the city’s clean and sustainable environment.