Japanese cosmetics brand SHIRO Co., Ltd. has announced it will open an innovative restaurant named MORISHIRO this Friday, November 21. Located on the grounds of its “Minna no Kojo” factory in Sunagawa, Hokkaido, the restaurant will offer a dining experience centred on the resources and aromas of the local forest, championing sustainable practices and regional […] The post MORISHIRO restaurant connects diners with Hokkaido’s forests appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Hospitality operator SUZU GROUP has opened the YANAGI MISO MUSEUM, a new cultural facility dedicated to preserving the region’s fermentation heritage. The museum is housed within the historic Yanagi Jozo brewery, which the group acquired in November 2024. The project transforms a portion of the working 138-year-old brewery into an experience-based museum. It was established […] The post 138-year-old miso brewery reborn as hands-on museum in Niigata appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to S...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japan was awarded the satirical “Fossil of the Day” prize on 13 November at the 30th UN Climate Change conference (COP30) for its continued support of fossil fuels and for obstructing progress in climate negotiations. The award was presented by the Climate Action Network (CAN), a global network of over 1,800 non-governmental organisations in 130 […] The post Fossil of the Day again: Criticism at COP30 for Japan’s fossil fuel push appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability i...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Ueni Trading Co., Ltd. has announced the release of three new mechanical watches that merge the global pop culture phenomenon of the anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” with the traditional Japanese craft of Kanazawa-haku. The watches, released under the company’s character collaboration brand GARRACK, feature handcrafted dials made by artisans from Kanazawa, a city […] The post New Demon Slayer watches featuring 400-year-old Kanazawa foil art appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The East Japan Railway Company (JR East) Group announced an expansion of its circular economy programme, creating a closed-loop system that turns food waste from its stations into rice served at its own restaurants. The initiative “Agricultural Recycling Loop” is now active in the Tokyo metropolitan and Sendai areas. The programme is part of JR […] The post Closed loop rice project links JR East stations farms and restaurants appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan.| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO has received the Ethical and Environmental Responsibility Award from the French global guide LA LISTE for its 2026 selection. The hotel, operated by BIOSTYLE Corporation, was recognised for its proactive and comprehensive approach to sustainability in the hospitality sector. LA LISTE, founded in 2015 by Philippe Faure, former French Ambassador to […] The post GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO wins French guide environmental award appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustaina...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
DNP offers a secure, patent pending service to recycle plastic from IC cards, separating metal and turning waste into new goods.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Convenience store chain FamilyMart Co., Ltd. has made the design for its successful “Namida-me Seal” (Teary-Eyed Sticker) available as a free asset. The company wants to encourage a society-wide effort to tackle food waste with other businesses. The sticker is a unique communication tool used on discounted food items such as onigiri rice balls and […] The post FamilyMart makes “Teary-Eyed Stickers” design free to combat food waste appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainabilit...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The Japanese government has officially recognised the farming of rhinoceros beetles as a form of agricultur. This ia a landmark decision that paves the way for a new circular agriculture. TOMUSHI Co., Ltd., a venture based in Akita Prefecture, received approval as a “Wide-Area Certified Agricultural Corporation” for its innovative model that uses agricultural waste […] The post Japan recognises beetle farming as circular agriculture in a world first appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway t...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The City of Yokohama announced it will lead a call to establish an Asian Circular Cities Declaration at the upcoming Asia Smart City Conference (ASCC) 2025. The international conference is scheduled to take place from November 25 to 27 at Pacifico Yokohama. The City of Yokohama aims to create a framework for cities in Asia […] The post Yokohama to spearhead Asian Circular Cities Declaration at ASCC 2025 appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan.| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Glass manufacturer AGC Inc. has started a collaboration with NPC Incorporated to expand the horizontal recycling of solar panel cover glass, establishing a new scheme to transform waste into architectural glass. Japan will soon see a large volume of solar panels expected to be decommissioned from the late 2030s. With a typical lifespan of 20 to […] The post AGC and NPC launch scheme to turn old solar panels into new building glass appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Ja...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The FUJI TEXTILE WEEK 2025 festival will be held in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, from November 22 to December 14, integrating art installations into the city’s public spaces through partnerships with local businesses. The goal of the organisers is to place art in everyday locations, and to provide an opportunity for residents to encounter art in […] The post Fujiyoshida’s textile art festival to transform local businesses into galleries appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Susta...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
In collaboration with Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores, V Inc. has announced the release of a 3D digital costume series for metaverse avatars inspired by the traditional Okinawan dyeing technique of Bingata. Bingata is a traditional method of dyeing textiles that has been passed down since the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The technique uses stencils […] The post Traditional Okinawan dyeing finds new life in metaverse as 3D avatar fashion appeared first on Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainabil...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Isetan Shinjuku hosts its first Sushi Expo 12–18 Nov 2025 with ten brands, live chef demos, Edo-mae counters, and takeaways.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
An exhibition celebrating the heritage of traditional Japanese paper-making will take place in Ogawa, Saitama Prefecture, from November 22-24. The event will feature an 11-metre-long illustrated scroll detailing the craft, commemorating the 10th anniversary of handmade washi (Japanese paper) being designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The exhibition “Chōjū-giga: The Making of Hand-made Japanese Paper,” […] The post UNESCO-listed Japanese paper craft celebrated with Chōjū...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Climate Action Network Japan (CAN-Japan) has criticised the outcome of the G7 Energy and Environment Ministers’ Meeting, calling it an “abandonment of climate leadership” that significantly undermines global climate efforts ahead of the COP30 summit. In a statement released earlier this week, the environmental network condemned the G7 for failing to advance climate action at […] The post CAN Japan criticises weakening climate commitments and leadership appeared first on Zenbird - Gate...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Specialty retailer Seisuke Knife launched a monthly rental service for high-quality, Japanese-made kitchen knives, offered through the rental platform Kauriru. This allows consumers an accessible way to experience artisan-crafted blades without the commitment of a high initial purchase price. The subscription service offers a range of domestically produced stainless steel knives, with some carbon steel […] The post Seisuke Knife begins monthly rental of Japanese artisan kitchen knives appea...| Zenbird – Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Meguro River Winter Cherries returns using 100% renewable energy from used cooking oil with pink LEDs and community crowdfunding.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Kagawa’s Yushokuboya feeds culled urchins udon waste, reviving seaweed beds with students and preparing sales across Japan.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Nov03 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Eight Japanese municipalities honoured for standout public-private partnerships driving regional revitalisation and sustainable growth.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Maeda Kosen Co., Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer of civil engineering materials, has launched “Ecosheep,” a new vegetation sheet designed to prevent soil erosion. The product is made entirely from natural animal and plant fibres, offering a plastic-free solution for reinforcing slopes. Ecosheep was developed to address soil instability on surfaces susceptible to erosion from frequent […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Fujifilm Business Innovation wins FY2025 PM Award for Zero Waste, maintains 99.5% recycling and expands remanufacturing.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Here are 3 recommended sustainable products that are accessible and affordable, made from Japanese citrus.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The concepts of mottainai and zero waste form a powerful pair against the detrimental convention of mass consumption. Zero waste is a movement to reduce waste and re-evaluate our consumerist lifestyle, and having a sense of mottainai cultivates the mindset needed to adopt that movement. What is mottainai? It is a sense of aversion to […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Exploring a Japanese circular fashion brand that incorporates traditional craftsmanship techniques, including hanmo.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
In the current era of instant gratification, these Japanese yokai remind us of ancient wisdom about sustainability.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japanese cuisine embraces "mottainai," reducing food waste through dishes like okonomiyaki, kenchin-jiru, and tsukemono.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Tokyo concert on 31 October showcases bamboo CNF koto plectrums rivaling ivory, boosting conservation and sustainable wagakki.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The latest news and developments of sustainability from Japan, to the world. Now with more columns and interviews!| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Discover Shimatsu no Kokoro, Kyoto’s cultural blueprint for a circular economy rooted in respect, reuse and resource stewardship.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Panasonic and JX Metals launch a copper recycling scheme to cut emissions and boost circular economy efforts in Japan.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Local Reuse Forum 2025 in Suwa City offers learning, networking and touring projects on building material reuse and regional circulation.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Three Japanese companies have achieved an industry first by successfully demonstrating a technology to recycle aluminium fins from old air conditioners directly into new ones. Daikin Industries, Ltd., UACJ Corporation and Nippon Magnetic Dressing Co., Ltd. announced on last month that their joint project has established a closed-loop system for a material that was previously […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
digglue joins RRC to build Japan’s Digital Product Passport standard, boosting EU ESPR compliance and circular transparency.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Kunio Yanagita’s concept of “Hare” and “Ke” is a key idea in Japanese folklore studies and cultural anthropology. It explains the contrast between special moments and daily routines in traditional Japanese life. The concept is highly relevant to our well-being and sustainability, and now may be the perfect time to look at it as we […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Spring is approaching, but chilly days still linger. As the cold weather continues, many people find comfort in a warm bath. For Japanese people, bathing is not just a way to unwind but also a cultural tradition for staying warm, as seen in hot spring customs. Orange peels are a natural and magical bath additive […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Explore Japanese practices like tea ceremony, Zen meditation, and calligraphy to restore balance, find inner peace, and renew mind and body.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
This is the time to get together and combat the biggest crisis of our time, climate change. Here are the answers to your questions.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Jun04 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Sustainable skincare line uses upcycled rice bran and deep-sea water to support youth skin health and boost Toyama’s local economy.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
TETOTETO launches Budo no One-piece, upcycling wine pomace in Yamanashi into edible goods to reduce food waste and support circular economies.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Pottery fragments from the 2024 Noto quake reborn as sculpture in Hyatt Centric Kanazawa lobby, marking its fifth anniversary.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
A brewery in Hokkaido is again partnering with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters baseball team to upcycle players’ broken bats into a unique craft beer, following the overwhelming success of last year’s project. Yo-Ho Brewing Company will expand its “Bat Beer Project” for a second year. The project takes shattered bats from players and transforms them […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Upcycling project revives 300-year-old Okinawan dyeing craft with textiles made from paper and wood, blending tradition with eco design.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japanese researchers find anti-ageing effects in discarded lemongrass leaves, paving the way for new treatments for muscle decline.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Aug29 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Sep05 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Explore how the Japanese tea ceremony nurtures mindfulness, seasonal awareness and sustainable living, weaving Zen, hospitality and craft.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Gibier Soap debuts water free powder shampoo and oil using upcycled wild boar fat, circulating waste resource into sustainable beauty.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Kameoka City in Kyoto Prefecture will open a museum on Monday, 1 September, dedicated to the Edo-period philosopher Ishida Baigan, whose teachings on ethics and commerce are finding new relevance in today’s discourse on corporate social responsibility and sustainable living. The Ishida Baigan Memorial Museum, built on the philosopher’s birthplace, is designed to be a […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Takenaka and DesignFuture Japan set a CTI based standard on Material Bank Japan to rate the circularity of building materials.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Aug20 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japan will certify recyclable and low-material plastic products under new 2026 eco standards to promote a circular economy.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Tanaka Precious Metals and JEPLAN use chemical recycling to recover metals and turn waste into feedstock, cutting CO2 to 10%.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Architect Developer Inc. (ADI) announced it will adopt the world’s first plasterboard made from 100% recycled gypsum in its new residential construction projects. The developer will begin using the carbon-neutral “Chiyoda Circular Gypsum Board” from Chiyoda Ute Co., Ltd. in new rental apartment buildings in the Chiba and Kanagawa areas. Constructyion waste is a problem […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japan’s Ministry of the Environment will send experts to help design circular economy visions and develop skilled personnel.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Mottainai is an old Japanese concept that reflects the idea that we should respect all objects and not waste them.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Oct30 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Discover mindful ways to explore Kyoto while easing the impact of overtourism on local communities.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Oct08 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Stay at Denpaku The Beachfront MIJORA for a serene, eco-friendly retreat in Amami’s World Heritage-listed natural paradise.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japan's roadmap aims to triple the reuse market by 2030 via consumer campaigns, business support and guidelines for resale.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
This Tokyo walking tour guided by OriHime robots reveals the beauty of ichi-go ichi-e moments through meaningful human connection.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Nissin Foods, Calbee, and Yakult are three major Japanese companies that have significantly influenced the food industry. These three brands are now so popular that they can be easily found in grocery stores outside Japan. However, not many are aware of the founders’ philosophies and strong passions, founded through a wish to help people in […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Reusable bone china cup and sleeve blend craftsmanship and eco-conscious design to challenge single-use culture.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Do you have a favourite shirt with a stain or a memorable blouse faded by the sun, tucked away in the back of your wardrobe? Have you given up on clothes that are still wearable, deciding they’re no longer suitable for public wear? In Kyoto...| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Nature Innovation Group, operator of the umbrella-sharing service ikasa, announced last week that it has raised 350 million yen in a Series B funding round. The impact investment from Nippon Television Holdings will fuel the expansion of its rental...| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Support Japan's cultural heritage with Tatami REBIRTH, a circular project reviving tatami at the historic Ohana residence.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Sep04 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
On 8 May, Shimizu Corporation announced the launch of a new material recycling scheme that involves sorting diverse types of plastic waste on-site at construction locations by material type and selling the recyclable materials for profit. This initiative aims to advance the realisation of a circular economy. Traditionally, plastic waste from construction sites has been […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japan‑backed projects in India, Indonesia and Palau boost circular economy, recycling and clean energy to cut emissions and waste.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Kameoka's Meguru Hiroba Project is fostering hands-on sustainability and community through monthly circular events.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Climate change| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
For coffee lovers, a looming threat hangs over their favourite drink. In Japan, we call it the “Kōhī 2025-nen Mondai,” or, translated literally, the “Coffee 2050 Problem”. It refers to a future crisis in which the world may struggle to meet demand...| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Through Art & Design we can wins customers' hearts. Find out how these Japanese sustainable products and services are doing so in Japan!| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Six companies launch a project to enhance horizontal recycling of aluminium building materials, promoting sustainable resource use.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Tokyo Circular Centre opens to scale urban recycling, enabling data-led reuse and circular production across the Kanto region.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Celebrate Earth Day with free UNIQLO clothing repairs at 16 stores in Japan, promoting reuse and circular fashion.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Yamma Industry Inc. is a players presenting us with another sustainable approach to have deeper relationships with Aizu cotton.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
PHAPHIC's exhibition in Kyoto showcases Japanese craftsmanship with Banshu and Bingo fabrics through vibrant designs and unique artistry.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The “Kyoto Nishijin Bridge to the Future Project” breathes new life into Nishijin-ori, or Nishijin weaving, by empowering young designers to reinterpret tradition through contemporary fashion. This is an upcycling project that won an award, “Kyoto City Shining Regional Enterprise Award – Future Contribution Award” from Kyoto City. The project was launched in May 2023 […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
KANSAIMAN merges Japanese craftsmanship with artistry, showcasing Kiryuu2019s legacy and "basara" philosophy in its Paris 2025 debut.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
NIPPONIA Sado Aikawa Goldmine Town on Sado Island is named a top destination for 2025 by TIME for its heritage-rich stays.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Japan offers subsidies covering up to 50% of costs for lodging facilities making eco-friendly upgrades, enhancing sustainability.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Apr17 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Jun04 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
In its fourth edition in 2024, the crQlr Awards awarded 29 winners and three receiving Special Prize awards.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Junkan Fes returns in 2025 in Kyoto with free second-hand clothing, sustainability workshops, and eco-friendly initiatives for all attendees.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
solaGlass project upcycles solar panel waste into glassware, promoting sustainability and a circular economy through innovative recycling.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Recognising 29 groundbreaking projects, the crQlr Awards 2024 celebrates circular economy solutions with an exhibition in Tokyo.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Trees wrapped in sacred ropes, known as goshinboku, are found throughout Japan and play significant roles in culture and spiritual beliefs.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The newest developements coming direct from Japan, a wide range of topics from ethical fashion, circular economy to upcycled products.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Food Sample Making Cafe in Asakusa, where you can craft replicas and enjoy real dishes, perfect for a creative and cultural Tokyo visit.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
OVERRIDE expands hat recycling to 25 stores, promoting sustainability through upcycling, collaboration, and community engagement.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Jan26 | Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
The Japan Travel Awards are back this year, spotlighting 11 outstanding winners chosen from 196 entries submitted nationwide. Now in its fourth year, the Awards celebrate travel destinations and operators in Japan that stand out for their focus on diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and exceptional hospitality. This year’s winners were spread across six categories, with four […]| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Enjoy authentic Shinshu miso dishes and discover Japan’s fermentation culture at Hakuba Happo Yamabuki Shokudo.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Experience the synergy of tourism and safety with Japan's disaster prevention tourism initiative, showcasing scenic evacuation sites.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
Stay in a historic Meiji-era home on Iki Island, enjoy pet-friendly comfort, and explore its rich culture and scenic beauty.| Zenbird - Gateway to Sustainability in Japan
