Sapporo

♻️

Waste Disposal

Instructions and resources for understanding Sapporo's waste management and recycling systems.

Sections

1. Waste Categories in Sapporo

Sapporo, like most Japanese cities, has a detailed waste separation system. Waste is divided into several categories, and each type must be disposed of on specific collection days. The main categories are:

A. Burnable Waste (燃やせるごみ / Moyaseru Gomi)

  • Examples: Kitchen scraps, paper, small wooden items, rubber, leather, and small amounts of dirty plastic.
  • Disposal: Use designated red bags (available for purchase at supermarkets and convenience stores).
  • Collection Frequency: Twice a week.

B. Non-Burnable Waste (燃やせないごみ / Moyasenai Gomi)

  • Examples: Metal items, glass, ceramics, and small electronic devices.
  • Disposal: Use designated blue bags.
  • Collection Frequency: Once every two weeks.

C. Plastic Containers and Packaging (プラスチック容器包装 / Purasuchikku Yōki Hōsō)

  • Examples: Plastic bottles, trays, wrappers, and other items with the plastic recycling symbol (♻️).
  • Disposal: Use designated yellow bags.
  • Collection Frequency: Once a week.

D. Cans, Bottles, and PET Bottles (缶・びん・ペットボトル / Kan, Bin, PET Bottoru)

  • 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.

E. 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 and a fee (see below for details).
  • Collection Frequency: By appointment only.

F. Hazardous Waste (有害ごみ / Yūgai Gomi)

  • Examples: Batteries, fluorescent tubes, lighters, and spray cans.
  • Disposal: Place in a clear bag and label it as "Hazardous Waste."
  • Collection Frequency: On non-burnable waste days.

G. Other Recyclables

  • Examples: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard, and milk cartons.
  • Disposal: Tie items with string and place them in designated collection areas.
  • Collection Frequency: Varies by neighborhood.

2. Costs of Waste Disposal

  • Standard Bags: You must purchase official Sapporo City garbage bags for burnable, non-burnable, and plastic waste. These are sold at supermarkets, convenience stores, and home improvement stores. Prices vary depending on the size of the bag:
    • Small (5 liters): ~¥200 for a pack of 10.
    • Medium (10 liters): ~¥400 for a pack of 10.
    • Large (20 liters): ~¥800 for a pack of 10.
  • Oversized Waste Fees: Fees for oversized waste depend on the item. For example:
    • Small items (e.g., chairs): ~¥200–¥500.
    • Large items (e.g., sofas): ~¥1,000–¥2,000.
    • You must purchase a "Sodai Gomi Sticker" from convenience stores to attach to the item before collection.

3. Waste Disposal Procedures

  1. Sort Your Waste: Carefully separate your waste into the appropriate categories.
  2. Use the Correct Bags: Purchase and use the designated bags for each type of waste.
  3. Check the Collection Schedule: Each neighborhood has a specific collection schedule. You can find this information in the waste disposal calendar provided by the city or on the Sapporo City website.
  4. Prepare Items Properly:
    • Rinse recyclables (e.g., PET bottles, cans, and glass bottles) to remove residue.
    • Flatten cardboard and tie it with string.
    • Remove caps and labels from PET bottles and dispose of them as plastic waste.
  5. Place Waste in Designated Areas: Waste must be placed in the designated collection area (usually near your residence) by 8:30 AM on the collection day. Do not put out waste the night before, as this can attract animals.
  6. Oversized Waste: For oversized items, call the Sapporo City Oversized Waste Center (011-281-8153) to schedule a pickup. Attach the purchased sticker to the item and place it in the designated area on the agreed date.

4. Local Considerations

  • Strict Enforcement: Improper sorting or use of non-designated bags can result in your waste not being collected. Repeat offenses may lead to fines or warnings.
  • Community Responsibility: Waste disposal is a communal effort in Japan. Residents are expected to follow the rules to maintain cleanliness and harmony in the neighborhood.
  • Language Barrier: Waste disposal instructions are often in Japanese. However, Sapporo City provides multilingual guides (including English, Chinese, and Korean) on its website and at city offices.
  • Seasonal Challenges: In winter, heavy snowfall can obstruct collection points. Ensure your waste is accessible to collectors.

5. Cultural and Legal Expectations

  • Cleanliness and Respect: Proper waste disposal is seen as a sign of respect for the community and environment. Neglecting these rules can lead to social disapproval.
  • Recycling Culture: Japan places a strong emphasis on recycling. Take the time to understand the system and participate actively.
  • Illegal Dumping: Dumping waste in unauthorized areas is illegal and can result in heavy fines or legal action.

6. Useful Resources and Sites

  • Sapporo City Waste Management Website: Sapporo City Official Website (available in multiple languages).
  • Waste Disposal Calendar: Obtain a copy from your local ward office or download it online.
  • Oversized Waste Center: Call 011-281-8153 for reservations and inquiries.
  • Recycling Centers: Sapporo has several recycling centers where you can drop off specific items. Check the city website for locations and accepted materials.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you comply with Sapporo's waste disposal system while contributing to the city's cleanliness and sustainability. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!