#Japan #Yamagata #Ajinomoto AGF #Blendy

Ajinomoto AGF's Sustainable Initiative

Ajinomoto AGF Co., Ltd., led by President Kenji Shimamoto, is taking significant strides in its environmental initiatives by partnering with Yamagata Prefecture. This collaboration, aimed at reducing plastic waste, has reached new heights with an expanding campaign starting May 30, 2026, coinciding with the Zero Waste Day. The initiative's primary goal is to encourage the use of reusable bottles, complementing the ongoing efforts towards creating a sustainable ecosystem.

This year marks the third consecutive year of partnership, which has consistently grown. The campaign initially launched in 2024 with 30 winners and 12 participating companies across 154 stores. By 2025, participation surged to over 2,000 applicants, prompting the expansion of the program to 16 companies and 312 stores in 2026, increasing the number of winners to 200. This growth signifies a strong commitment to making reusable bottle usage a daily habit among local residents, fostering environmentally conscious behavior throughout Yamagata Prefecture.

Yamagata has been proactive in environmental stewardship, declaring its goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 under the initiative known as Zero Carbon Yamagata 2050. The prefecture aims to tackle environmental challenges collectively with its citizens, promoting the reduction of plastic waste by encouraging the transition from single-use plastic bottles to reusable containers like water bottles and tumblers. This transition is supported by a registration program for establishments that will provide beverages in customers' reusable bottles.

To further promote this initiative, Ajinomoto AGF is introducing the Blendy® My Bottle Stick series, designed for ease of use with reusable bottles. These stick-type beverages can substantially reduce plastic usage by around 88% when compared to traditional PET bottles. This innovative approach supports the notion of reducing environmental burdens while encouraging individuals to choose healthier options for their hydration needs.

The collaboration with Yamagata was formalized with a partnership agreement in September 2024, amplifying the efforts to enhance awareness and engagement throughout the campaign. With the new goal of 200 winners and participation from 16 companies and 312 retailers, Ajinomoto AGF aims to strengthen its ongoing commitment to sustainability by supplying engaging promotional materials at participating locations.

Campaign Activities

1. Promotion of Reusable Bottles
At the entry points of each participating store, Ajinomoto AGF will display eye-catching promotional materials highlighting their reusable bottle-friendly products, including the Blendy® My Bottle Stick. This initiative not only encourages the use of reusable containers but also runs a giveaway campaign offering original bottles crafted in Yamagata.
- Participating Stores: A total of 312 supermarkets and drugstores in Yamagata will engage in this sustainable promotion, albeit certain stores may vary.

2. My Bottle Giveaway Contest
Customers can scan the QR code available on the promotional material and fill out a survey for a chance to win one of 200 original Yamagata bottles. The survey will open on May 30, 2026, and run until August 31, 2026.
- Inquiry Contact: Yamagata Prefecture Environmental Energy Division: 023-630-2322

Product Overview

The Blendy® My Bottle Stick series stands out as it allows individuals to conveniently prepare flavorful drinks throughout the day while significantly lowering their carbon footprint. Each flavor blend is designed to provide a refreshing experience while visibly displaying the CO2 emissions reduction achieved, with some flavors demonstrating remarkable reductions of up to 91% compared to standard bottled drinks.

Ajinomoto AGF is committed to not just the health of individuals but also the well-being of our planet. Through partnerships and community engagement, they make considerable strides toward a sustainable future where everyone can thrive. For customer inquiries about the products, please contact the customer service office at 0120-17-8651.