Strengthening Eco-Friendly Practices in Wakayama
F-Pico Co., a leading company based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and JA Wakayama A-Corp, located in Wakayama City, have partnered to enhance eco-friendly initiatives in Wakayama Prefecture. Their joint commitment, termed the "Eco Store Collaboration Declaration," focuses on horizontal recycling across 16 local stores, aiming to not only promote sustainability but also to educate the community about recycling.
What is Horizontal Recycling?
Horizontal recycling refers to a system where materials are recycled without changing their original purpose. For instance, JA Wakayama A-Corp stores collect used food trays and PET bottles through designated collection boxes. Once collected, these resources are revitalized by F-Pico into eco-friendly products such as "Eco Trays." These eco-products are then returned to the stores, creating a cycle of reuse that emphasizes sustainability at the local level.
Key Points of the Initiative
The initiative is designed to make stores eco-leaders in their communities by consolidating various container types into eco-friendly products, which will further decrease CO2 emissions. This approach aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote a healthier planet.
Past Achievements and Future Goals
As of March 2025, JA Wakayama A-Corp successfully collected 13 tons of food trays and 1.7 tons of PET bottles. The recycled eco-products led to a notable reduction of 56 tons of CO2 emissions. By March 2026, the organization is set to increase its targets to 15 tons of food trays and 2 tons of PET bottles, with an ambitious goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 60 tons through expanded eco-product usage.
Building a Sustainable Future for Wakayama
Through this collaboration, F-Pico and JA Wakayama A-Corp strive to protect the rich natural environment of Wakayama Prefecture. They aim to promote effective resource utilization and sustainable practices for future generations. Active engagement from the community is vital for the success of this initiative. Residents are encouraged to return used trays to JA Wakayama A-Corp stores to support the horizontal recycling efforts.
About F-Pico Co.
F-Pico is Japan's largest manufacturer of simple food containers used in supermarkets and convenience stores. The company is committed to sustainable development through recycled resources, known as the "tray-to-tray" and "bottle-to-clear container" methods, aimed at reducing environmental impact and CO2 emissions. Their corporate headquarters is located at 36th floor, Shinjuku Oak Tower, 6-8-1 Nishi Shinjuku, Tokyo, 163-6036.
Website: F-Pico Website
About JA Wakayama A-Corp
JA Wakayama A-Corp operates as a supermarket chain under the JA Group in Wakayama Prefecture, focusing on selling domestically sourced fresh vegetables and meats. The organization was formed through the merger of eight local JAs on April 1, 2025, and has since become recognized for its significant contribution to the community and agriculture in Japan. The members ensure to fulfill their responsibilities and expectations through continual engagement with local stakeholders.
Location: 1-1, 5-chome Misono, Wakayama City, 640-8331, Wakayama Prefecture.
Website: JA Wakayama A-Corp Website