Connecting Smiles for a Sustainable Future at Reuse Day Event

On August 8, 2025, a unique event titled "Reuse Day - Connecting Smiles for Future Power" will take place at Akiba Square in Chiyoda, Tokyo. This event, initiated by the BOOKOFF Group and supported by a coalition of six recycling companies, aims to promote awareness about reuse and foster a circular economy among young participants. The motivation for this gathering stems from the globally recognized need for a shift from excessive consumption to sustainable resource management.

This inaugural Reuse Day event is designed primarily for elementary school students, especially those in the fifth and sixth grades, and their families. The goal is to provide hands-on experiences that encourage participants to integrate reuse into their daily lives, therefore contributing to the development of a circular society. Understanding the value of resources and the importance of reusing items is essential for the next generation, especially in a world facing resource scarcity.

The concept of a circular economy involves maximizing the value of resources and products throughout their lifecycle, which stands in stark contrast to a linear economy based on mass production and consumption. Reuse plays a vital role in this transition. It reduces waste, minimizes CO2 emissions during disposal, and conserves resources needed for new production. However, surveys by Japan's Ministry of the Environment reveal that approximately 70% of consumers have never utilized reuse services, indicating a pressing need for increased awareness and engagement in this area.

“Reuse Day,” established as a commemorative day by the Japan Reuse Industry Association in 2023, is symbolically tied to the infinity symbol '∞' through its date, August 8. This signifies the ongoing cycle of items being passed from one person to another, reinforcing the idea of sustainability.

In addition to the hands-on workshops, the event will kick off with an opening ceremony featuring representatives from the Ministry of the Environment and the participating reuse companies. They will discuss the benefits of reuse and how everyone can contribute to a circular economy. This informative session will be open to both children and their parents, providing insight into practical steps that can be taken towards sustainability.

Event Details:

- Name: Reuse Day - Connecting Smiles for Future Power
- Date: August 8 (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM) & August 9 (11:00 AM - 5:00 PM), 2025
- Venue: Akiba Square, 4 Chome-14-1 Soto-Kanda, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Target Audience: Elementary school students and their guardians (recommended ages: 3rd to 6th grade)
- Participation Fee: Free (pre-registration required)
- Organizer: Reuse Day Executive Committee
- Supported by: Ministry of the Environment
- Participating Companies: Six members from the reuse industry association, including BOOKOFF, Hard Off Corporation, and more.

Expanding Reuse Awareness Beyond the Event

Beyond this two-day event, the BOOKOFF Group is dedicated to creating ongoing touchpoints for consumers to deepen their understanding of reuse. Various initiatives will be launched across BOOKOFF locations and affiliated services to underline the significance of sustainable practices, such as a special campaign where customers can collect stamps when donating items that would typically go unrewarded.

Additionally, the event will align with BOOKOFF's commitment to providing various options for consumers to responsibly part with items they no longer need, thus fostering a greater culture of reuse across multiple service platforms including their premium services.

The ultimate aim is to promote a transformation in consumer behavior towards reusing items, thereby contributing to waste reduction and carbon neutrality efforts across society. As large-scale transitions to a circular economy are implemented, events like Reuse Day will play a crucial role in engaging future generations and instilling sustainable practices at a young age.

Follow along with the initiatives leading up to Reuse Day on Instagram at smile.circulation and stay informed about all future sustainability-related activities stemming from the movement.

BOOKOFF continues to share its journey toward sustainability as a leading company in the reuse sector, evolving a vision that emphasizes both economic and environmental durability for future generations.

For more information about the Reuse Day event or to register, please visit the official registration page.