#Japan #Copan #R-LOOP #BPLab #Tajimi

Copan's Sustainable Initiative in Tajimi: The Launch of 'R-LOOP'

In an inspiring move towards sustainability, Copan Co., Ltd., a prominent enterprise operating 73 sports clubs and swimming schools, has recently partnered with startup BPLab to introduce a new resource recycling platform called 'R-LOOP' at its Copan Sports Club in Tajimi. This collaboration is a significant step in fostering circular economy principles within local communities.

About Copan Co., Ltd.

Founded in April 1993 and based in Tajimi, Gifu Prefecture, Copan focuses on promoting healthy living by offering a wide range of services, including sports clubs, swimming schools, aesthetic salons, cultural schools, futsal clubs, tennis schools, travel agencies, and more. The company's mission is “to provide a healthy lifestyle and fulfilling experiences” to its 100,000 members nationwide.

The Partnership with BPLab

This innovative project was made possible through connections created at 'STATION Ai', which is Central Japan's largest startup support hub. Copan’s president, Fumitaka Ichioka, highlighted that the choice of BPLab was motivated by a shared vision of contributing positively to society while implementing comfortable and effective recycling practices.

BPLab, established in June 2021 in Aoyama, Tokyo, specializes in textile recycling and reusing initiatives. Their slogan emphasizes achieving a sustainable lifestyle through circular economy practices. They operate systems that combine domestic recycling with reuse schemes linked to Book Off's international stores, aiming to ensure that goods remain in circulation.

R-LOOP: Revolutionizing Recycling

The 'R-LOOP' platform is designed to collect clothing and miscellaneous items to foster a culture of reuse and recycling. Copan’s decision to incorporate 'R-LOOP' into their club was heavily influenced by acknowledging that a significant portion of their members are children, who continually outgrow toys and clothing. This realization brought to light the potential for reducing waste and promoting responsible disposal of usable items.

Benefits of R-LOOP

Implementing R-LOOP provides members and their families with:

• - Psychological Comfort: Reducing the stress associated with discarding items.
• - Community Engagement: Encouraging the local community to participate in the recycling movement.
• - Opportunities for Eco Participation: Creating avenues for members to engage in eco-friendly activities.

The initiative encourages members to let go of items they no longer need, offering assurance that their goods will be reused effectively by others, thereby reducing the volume of waste that typically ends up in landfills.

Future Directions

Copan envisions a future where partnerships with various startups, including BPLab, will continue to evolve. This collaboration is not just about recycling; it's about creating a comprehensive experience for members that goes beyond traditional sports offerings. By maximizing the real-world platforms of their sports clubs, Copan aims to introduce innovative service models that leverage the essence of community and sustainability.

As Copan expands its collaboration with diverse startups, it seeks to provide its members with new and immersive experiences, further contributing to a sustainable, circular economy while enriching the lives of the community it serves.

Company Overview

Copan Co., Ltd.

• - President: Fumitaka Ichioka
• - Location: 2-60-1 Hikarioka, Tajimi, Gifu Prefecture
• - Incorporated: April 1993
• - Capital: 1 billion JPY
• - URL: copin.co.jp

BPLab

• - CEO: Naoki Yashiro
• - Location: 2-12-8 Biz Smart Aoyama, Minato, Tokyo
• - Incorporated: June 2021
• - Business Overview: Operating a platform to promote circular economy in textiles
• - URL: bplab.info