Yokohama

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Recycling and Waste Management

Guidelines and processes for proper waste separation, disposal, and recycling in Yokohama.

Sections

1. Waste Separation Categories in Yokohama

Yokohama uses a detailed waste separation system, and residents are required to sort their waste into specific categories. The main categories are:

  1. Burnable Waste (燃やすごみ, Moyasu Gomi)

    • Includes: Kitchen waste, paper waste, small wooden items, rubber, and leather items.
    • Collection Frequency: Twice a week.
    • Disposal: Use designated transparent or semi-transparent bags.

  2. Non-Burnable Waste (燃やさないごみ, Moyasanai Gomi)

    • Includes: Metal items, glass items (not bottles), ceramics, and small appliances.
    • Collection Frequency: Twice a month.
    • Disposal: Use designated transparent or semi-transparent bags.

  3. Recyclable Waste (資源ごみ, Shigen Gomi)

    • Subcategories:
      • Cans, Bottles, and PET Bottles: Rinse and remove caps/labels.
      • Paper: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard, and paper cartons (flatten and tie with string).
      • Clothing: Clean and dry clothing items.
    • Collection Frequency: Once a week.
    • Disposal: Follow specific instructions for each subcategory.

  4. Oversized Waste (粗大ごみ, Sodai Gomi)

    • Includes: Furniture, large appliances, bicycles, and other items that do not fit in standard bags.
    • Collection Procedure: Requires advance reservation and payment (see below for details).

  5. Hazardous Waste (有害ごみ, Yuugai Gomi)

    • Includes: Batteries, fluorescent lights, lighters, and spray cans.
    • Collection Frequency: Once a month.
    • Disposal: Place in designated containers or bags.

  6. Other Specific Waste

    • Electronic Appliances (家電リサイクル, Kaden Recycle): TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines must be recycled through a special system (see below).
    • Food Waste: While food waste is part of burnable waste, composting is encouraged if possible.

2. Procedures for Disposing of Specific Waste Types

General Waste (Burnable and Non-Burnable)

  • Use transparent or semi-transparent bags available at supermarkets or convenience stores.
  • Place waste at the designated collection point by 8:00 AM on the scheduled day.
  • Check your neighborhood's collection calendar for specific days.

Recyclable Waste

  • Cans, Bottles, and PET Bottles: Rinse thoroughly and remove caps/labels. PET bottle caps can often be recycled separately for charity purposes.
  • Paper: Flatten and tie newspapers, magazines, and cardboard with string. Do not use tape.
  • Clothing: Place in a clear bag and ensure items are clean and dry.

Oversized Waste (Sodai Gomi)

  • Reservation Process:
    1. Call the Yokohama City Oversized Waste Reception Center (045-330-3953) or use the online reservation system.
    2. Provide details about the item(s) and schedule a pickup date.
    3. Purchase a "Sodai Gomi Sticker" (粗大ごみ処理券) from a convenience store. The cost depends on the item (e.g., ¥200–¥2,000).
    4. Attach the sticker to the item and place it at the designated location on the scheduled day.

Electronic Appliances

  • Under Japan's Home Appliance Recycling Law, certain appliances (TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines) cannot be disposed of as regular waste.
  • Procedure:
    1. Contact the retailer where you purchased the item or a licensed recycling company.
    2. Pay a recycling fee (¥1,000–¥6,000 depending on the item) and a transportation fee.
    3. Arrange for pickup or drop-off at a designated recycling center.

Hazardous Waste

  • Place items like batteries, fluorescent lights, and spray cans in designated containers or bags.
  • Ensure spray cans are completely empty before disposal.

3. Cost of Waste Collection Services

  • Regular waste collection (burnable, non-burnable, and recyclables) is covered by municipal taxes, so there is no additional cost for standard household waste.
  • Oversized waste and electronic appliances require additional fees, as outlined above.

4. Local Drop-Off Sites

  • Recycling Centers: Yokohama has several recycling centers where you can drop off specific items like paper, cans, and PET bottles. Check with your local ward office for the nearest location.
  • Eco Stations: Some wards have "Eco Stations" for dropping off recyclables and hazardous waste.
  • Community Collection Points: Many neighborhoods have designated collection points for recyclables and other waste.

5. Relevant Cultural Practices

  • Cleanliness and Responsibility: Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on cleanliness and personal responsibility for waste. Always follow the rules and avoid leaving waste outside of designated times or locations.
  • Community Involvement: In some neighborhoods, residents take turns managing the collection point to ensure compliance.
  • Minimal Waste Generation: Many Japanese households strive to minimize waste by reusing items, composting, and avoiding excessive packaging.

6. Important Considerations

  • Language Barrier: Waste disposal instructions are often in Japanese. Look for guides in English provided by the Yokohama City website or your local ward office.
  • Collection Calendar: Each neighborhood has a specific collection schedule. Obtain a copy of the calendar from your ward office or download it online.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Improper disposal can result in fines or your waste not being collected. Always follow the rules.
  • Composting: If you have a garden, consider composting food waste to reduce burnable waste.
  • Moving In/Out: When moving, plan ahead for disposing of oversized items and appliances, as these require reservations and fees.

7. Resources

  • Yokohama City Waste Management Website: https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp
  • Oversized Waste Reception Center: 045-330-3953
  • Ward Offices: Visit your local ward office for detailed information and assistance.
  • Multilingual Support: Some ward offices and the Yokohama City website offer guides in English, Chinese, and other languages.

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