Tokyo

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Waste Management

Guidelines for recycling, garbage disposal, and Tokyo's waste separation system.

Sections

1. Overview of Waste Management in Tokyo

Tokyoโ€™s waste management system is based on the principles of waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal. Residents are required to separate their waste into specific categories and follow designated collection schedules. Each ward (ๅŒบ, ku) in Tokyo may have slightly different rules, so itโ€™s important to check the guidelines provided by your local ward office (kuyakusho).

2. Waste Separation Categories

Waste in Tokyo is typically divided into the following categories:

A. Burnable Garbage (ๅฏ็‡ƒใ”ใฟ, Kanen Gomi)

  • Examples: Food scraps, paper waste, small wooden items, rubber, leather products.
  • Disposal: Place in designated burnable garbage bags (usually semi-transparent).
  • Collection Frequency: Twice a week.

B. Non-Burnable Garbage (ไธ็‡ƒใ”ใฟ, Funen Gomi)

  • Examples: Metal items, glass, ceramics, small appliances (e.g., toasters, hairdryers).
  • Disposal: Place in designated non-burnable garbage bags.
  • Collection Frequency: Once or twice a month (varies by ward).

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

Recyclables are further divided into subcategories:

  1. Cans, Bottles, and PET Bottles (็ผถใƒป็“ถใƒปใƒšใƒƒใƒˆใƒœใƒˆใƒซ, Kan, Bin, PET Bottoru)
    • Examples: Aluminum cans, glass bottles, plastic drink bottles.
    • Preparation: Rinse thoroughly and remove caps/labels from PET bottles.
    • Collection Frequency: Weekly or bi-weekly.
  2. Paper (็ด™้กž, Kamirui)
    • Examples: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard, paper cartons.
    • Preparation: Tie with string into bundles or place in paper bags.
    • Collection Frequency: Weekly or bi-weekly.

D. Hazardous Waste (ๆœ‰ๅฎณใ”ใฟ, Yลซgai Gomi)

  • Examples: Batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, lighters, thermometers.
  • Disposal: Place in a separate bag and label clearly.
  • Collection Frequency: Varies by ward.

E. Oversized Garbage (็ฒ—ๅคงใ”ใฟ, Sodai Gomi)

  • Examples: Furniture, large appliances, bicycles, mattresses.
  • Procedure: Requires a special disposal process (see below).
  • Collection Frequency: By appointment only.

3. Collection Schedules

  • Each ward has its own collection schedule, which is typically distributed in the form of a calendar or guidebook (gomi shลซshลซ nittei). These are often available in English or other languages at your local ward office or online.
  • Garbage must be placed at the designated collection point (gomi shลซshลซ basho) by the specified time, usually early in the morning (e.g., by 8:00 AM) on the collection day.

4. Disposal Costs

  • Regular Household Waste: Free of charge, but you must use the designated garbage bags, which may need to be purchased at local convenience stores or supermarkets.
  • Oversized Garbage (Sodai Gomi): Requires a fee, which depends on the size and type of the item. Fees typically range from ยฅ200 to ยฅ2,000 per item.

5. Procedures for Sorting and Discarding Waste

A. Regular Waste

  1. Purchase Designated Bags: Use the correct semi-transparent bags for burnable and non-burnable waste. These are color-coded or labeled according to the type of waste.
  2. Sort Waste Properly: Follow the separation guidelines strictly.
  3. Check the Schedule: Confirm the collection day for each type of waste.
  4. Place Waste at the Collection Point: Ensure it is placed in the correct location and at the correct time.

B. Oversized Garbage (Sodai Gomi)

  1. Apply for Collection: Contact your wardโ€™s Sodai Gomi center by phone or online to schedule a pickup.
  2. Purchase a Disposal Sticker (็ฒ—ๅคงใ”ใฟๅ‡ฆ็†ๅˆธ, Sodai Gomi Shoriken): These are available at convenience stores. The cost depends on the item.
  3. Attach the Sticker: Write your name and collection date on the sticker and attach it to the item.
  4. Place the Item for Collection: Leave it at the designated location on the scheduled day.

6. Cultural Considerations and Tips

  • Respect for Rules: Waste management is taken very seriously in Japan. Improper disposal can lead to fines or complaints from neighbors.
  • Community Cooperation: Many neighborhoods have volunteer groups or building managers who oversee waste disposal. Be mindful of their instructions.
  • Cleanliness: Always rinse recyclables to prevent odors and pests.
  • Language Barriers: If youโ€™re unsure about the rules, ask a neighbor, landlord, or the ward office. Many ward offices provide multilingual support.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: During summer, double-bag food waste to prevent odors and pests.
  • Reduce Waste: Consider minimizing waste by reusing items, avoiding excessive packaging, and participating in recycling programs.

7. Resources for Assistance

  • Ward Office (ๅŒบๅฝนๆ‰€, Kuyakusho): Visit your local ward office for detailed waste management guides in English or other languages.
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Website: Offers general information on waste disposal.
  • Sodai Gomi Center: Each ward has a dedicated center for oversized garbage inquiries and appointments.
  • Mobile Apps: Some wards provide apps with waste separation guides and collection schedules.

By following these guidelines, youโ€™ll not only contribute to Tokyoโ€™s efficient waste management system but also demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect for the community. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!