Nagoya

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Waste Management

Information about the waste segregation and disposal system in Nagoya.

Sections

1. Categories of Waste in Nagoya

Nagoya's waste is divided into several categories, and each type must be sorted and disposed of correctly. The main categories are:

A. Burnable Waste (็‡ƒใ‚„ใ™ใ”ใฟ, Moyasu Gomi)

  • Examples: Kitchen waste, paper waste, small wooden items, rubber, leather, and small amounts of plastic that cannot be recycled.
  • Disposal: Use designated red bags (available for purchase at supermarkets and convenience stores).

B. Non-Burnable Waste (็‡ƒใ‚„ใ•ใชใ„ใ”ใฟ, Moyasanai Gomi)

  • Examples: Metal items, glass, ceramics, and small appliances (e.g., toasters, kettles).
  • Disposal: Use designated blue bags.

C. Recyclable Waste (่ณ‡ๆบใ”ใฟ, Shigen Gomi)

This category is 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.
  2. Paper and Cardboard:
    • Examples: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes.
    • Disposal: Tie them with string into bundles.
  3. Plastic Containers and Packaging:
    • Examples: Plastic trays, wrappers, and containers with the recycling symbol.
    • Disposal: Rinse and place in transparent or semi-transparent bags.

D. Oversized Waste (็ฒ—ๅคงใ”ใฟ, Sodai Gomi)

  • Examples: Furniture, large appliances, bicycles, and other items that do not fit in standard bags.
  • Disposal: Requires a reservation and a fee. See the "Disposal Procedures" section for details.

E. Hazardous Waste

  • Examples: Batteries, fluorescent lights, spray cans, and lighters.
  • Disposal: Follow specific instructions for each item. Spray cans and lighters must be emptied before disposal.

F. Other Special Waste

  • Examples: Electronics (e.g., TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines).
  • Disposal: These items are not collected by the city and must be taken to designated recycling centers or returned to the retailer where they were purchased.

2. Collection Schedules

Nagoya has a strict and detailed collection schedule, which varies by neighborhood. You will receive a waste collection calendar (ใ”ใฟๅŽ้›†ใ‚ซใƒฌใƒณใƒ€ใƒผ, Gomi Shลซshลซ Karendฤ) from your local ward office or landlord. This calendar specifies:

  • Days for each waste type: Burnable waste is typically collected twice a week, while non-burnable and recyclable waste are collected less frequently (e.g., once or twice a month).
  • Collection times: Waste must be placed at the designated collection point by 8:30 AM on the specified day. Late disposal is not allowed.

3. Proper Disposal Procedures

To ensure compliance with Nagoya's waste management system, follow these steps:

A. Sorting

  • Carefully separate your waste into the correct categories.
  • Check for recycling symbols on plastic items to determine if they belong in the recyclable plastics category.

B. Bagging

  • Use the correct color-coded bags (red for burnable, blue for non-burnable, and transparent/semi-transparent for recyclables).
  • Bags must be securely tied to prevent spillage.

C. Placement

  • Place your waste at the designated collection point in your neighborhood. These are often marked areas near residential buildings or street corners.
  • Do not place waste out the night before, as this can attract pests.

D. Oversized Waste

  • For oversized items, contact the Nagoya City Oversized Waste Reception Center (็ฒ—ๅคงใ”ใฟๅ—ไป˜ใ‚ปใƒณใ‚ฟใƒผ, Sodai Gomi Uketsuke Sentฤ) to schedule a pickup.
  • You will need to purchase a sodai gomi disposal sticker (available at convenience stores) and attach it to the item before collection.

4. Costs

  • Standard Waste Bags: Red and blue bags must be purchased at local stores. Prices vary depending on the size of the bag.
  • Oversized Waste: Fees range from ยฅ200 to ยฅ2,000 per item, depending on size and type.
  • Special Waste: Electronics and other items may incur additional recycling fees, which are paid to the retailer or recycling center.

5. Local Disposal Sites

For items that cannot be collected curbside, you can visit the following facilities:

  • Nagoya City Recycling Centers: Accept certain recyclable items and hazardous waste.
  • Eco-Centers: Handle specific types of waste and provide information on proper disposal.
  • Retailer Take-Back Programs: Many electronics and appliance stores in Nagoya participate in take-back programs for old items.

6. Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Strict Compliance: Japan takes waste sorting very seriously. Improperly sorted waste may not be collected, and you may receive a notice from your local ward office.
  • Community Responsibility: Waste management is often a shared responsibility in apartment buildings. Be sure to follow any additional rules set by your building manager or neighborhood association.
  • Language Barriers: Waste disposal instructions are often in Japanese. Use translation apps or ask a neighbor for help if you're unsure.
  • Eco-Consciousness: Japanese culture emphasizes reducing waste. Consider adopting habits like using reusable bags, minimizing food waste, and recycling diligently.

7. Tips for Compliance

  • Study the Calendar: Keep your waste collection calendar in a visible place and set reminders for collection days.
  • Prepare in Advance: Rinse recyclables and sort waste daily to avoid last-minute confusion.
  • Ask for Help: If you're unsure about disposal rules, ask your landlord, neighbors, or the local ward office for guidance.
  • Use Apps: Some municipalities in Japan offer apps with waste sorting guides and collection schedules. Check if Nagoya has one available.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate Nagoya's waste management system with ease and contribute to the city's clean and sustainable environment.