RECYCLING IN BEPPU

Writer: Andrew Ariel Darwin | Illustrator: Ariyani | Editor: Reinardus Darren | Photographer: Andrew Ariel Darwin

During our current situation COVID-19 takes the spotlight for global issues, but we must not forget that global warming and environmental issues caused by us humans are still around. Environmental problems have sparked major issues such as polar ice caps melting, to forest fires. Countries around the world are trying their best to combat this conundrum. As for Japan, Japan is currently making efforts in reducing wastes as data suggests they recycle 84% of their plastic wastes by using thermal recycling that is then converted to valuable renewable energy used in daily lives. Every city in Japan is contributing towards it, the same goes for Beppu. Now, let’s take a look at how Beppu recycles its wastes.

Different cities in Japan have a slightly different way of recycling. Although in public places there are not many trash bins scattered throughout Japan, there are recycling bins where people can throw their trash which are separated into plastic, glass, paper and organic/biodegradable.

As for Beppu there are a couple of proper garbage disposal etiquettes citizens need to follow. Beppu City has different colors of plastic bags that are designated for different types of garbage. Green garbage bags for burnable garbage, Clear for unburnable garbage, Pink for cans, glasses and PET bottles.

As for citizens, there are ways where you can make a contribution, which is by using less plastics especially when buying a couple of things in convenience stores, it is more encouraged to bring your own reusable bag and bottle as it can make a big impact long term wise.

Now as for scheduling, all garbage is collected twice every month however burnable garbage (Green Bag) is collected twice a week. All bags that you want to throw should be tied and be put outside by 8.30 in the morning of the collection day. It will then be collected by the workers and will be brought to a place where they recycle the citizens' garbage. There are also specifications on what kind of garbage you can and cannot put in the recycling bag. For some house appliances such as TV’s, AC’s, Refrigerators and others, they charge you ranging from 900 to 4300 yen depending on the type. For further information regarding the dates visit https://www.city.beppu.oita.jp/seikatu/gaikokujinmuke/ei/detail68.html where there are time schedules, dates and specifications where you can follow on what you can recycle.

Recycling makes a really big impact in the long run. By doing so, it provides a lot of environmental benefits such as reducing harmful emissions of greenhouse gases that affect climate change. Furthermore, it also conserves natural resources and also cuts down on waste in landfills. As such, citizens are also encouraged to constantly participate in this movement towards a greener environment for long term sustainability.