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Tokyo's Smart Action Project with SmaGO: Enhancing Omotesando's Environment

In a remarkable initiative celebrating its fourth year, the 'Smart Action Project' in Omotesando is set to continue its successful operations, utilizing the innovative smart trash bins known as SmaGO. Managed by Forcetec Inc. based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, this project has garnered support from Japan Speciality Ceramics Co., Ltd., under the leadership of President Keiji Suzuki, and collaborates with Heralbony Co., Ltd., led by Co-CEOs Takumi Matsuda and Fumito Matsuda, to beautify public spaces while promoting sustainable practices.

Understanding the Smart Action Project

Launched in April 2023, the Smart Action Project champions the challenge of creating a circular economy through proper waste disposal. SmaGO operates efficiently using solar power and is equipped with features like automatic waste compression and remote monitoring capabilities, allowing it to reduce waste volume significantly. Currently, a total of 34 SmaGO bins have been strategically placed along 13 sites in Omotesando, wrapped in vibrant art created by artists with intellectual disabilities, as part of Heralbony's initiative to support diversity and creativity.

The art installations are updated quarterly to reflect the seasons, engaging pedestrians and inspiring them to consider the importance of proper waste disposal and the promotion of a diverse society. The project is further supported by the Harajuku Omotesando Keyaki Association, which allocates sponsorship funds towards everyday operational costs such as waste collection and cleaning.

Positive Impacts and Achievements

Before the introduction of SmaGO, waste collection in the Omotesando and Harajuku areas required pickups 3-4 times daily. With the implementation of these smart bins, that frequency has remarkably dropped to once per day, achieving a reduction of approximately 70% in collection frequency. This change has resulted in fewer overflowing bins, improved aesthetic appeal of the area, reduced cleaning burdens, and enhanced convenience for users.

As the environment for responsible disposal has improved, the rate of waste separation has also seen a significant increase, further showcasing the project's impact on community behavior.

Upcoming Featured Artworks for Summer 2026

This summer, two fresh artworks have been chosen to adorn the SmaGO bins, reinforcing the vibrant atmosphere of Omotesando:

Artwork 1: Summer Impression 2024.08.10 Shibuya

• - Artist: Ryohei Akaike (Atelier QUOKKA | Shizuoka Prefecture)
• - Ryohei has been inspired by various motifs since childhood, drawing with a unique free-flowing line style. His vivid colors create powerful and eye-catching illustrations that capture the essence of his subjects with striking eyes and rhythmic strokes.

Artwork 2: Morning on the River Surface

• - Artist: SATO (Boston, USA)
• - SATO's artistic practice began at a summer camp at the age of ten, leading him to create one piece daily based on his inner emotions. His refreshing watercolor techniques invite viewers to connect with his colorful interpretations of life.

Project Summary

• - Start Date: April 2023
• - Location: Sidewalks along Omotesando in Tokyo
• - Number of Installations: 34 SmaGO bins at 13 locations
• - Support: Japan Speciality Ceramics Co., Ltd.
• - Artwork Provision: Heralbony Co., Ltd.
• - Project Management: Forcetec Inc.
• - Operation: Harajuku Omotesando Keyaki Association

SmaGO Overview

SmaGO, developed by Forcetec, is an environmentally conscious IoT smart trash bin designed to operate on solar power, compressing waste to almost one-fifth of its original volume while notifying of operational status through communication features. The customizable exteriors also serve educational purposes about waste segregation, inviting sponsorships that further decrease operational costs. Overall, SmaGO aligns with six of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations, showcasing a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Company Profiles

• - Japan Speciality Ceramics Co., Ltd.

- Location: Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture
- Business Focus: Manufacturing and selling of spark plugs and new ceramics.

• - Heralbony Co., Ltd.

- Mission: Aiming to change perceptions of disabilities and create new cultural movements through art.

• - Forcetec Inc.

- Purpose: To develop a new societal model through tech-driven environmental solutions.

For any inquiries, please contact Forcetec Inc. public relations at 03-3453-7140 or visit their official site at Forcetec.