#Japan #Wakayama #environmental education #F-Pico #Okuwa

F-Pico and Okuwa's Environmental Education Initiative

On November 14, 2025, F-Pico Co., Ltd., led by Chairman Mamor Masato, and Okuwa Co., Ltd., headed by President Hirotsugu Okuwa, collaborated to conduct an environmental education class at the affiliated elementary school of Wakayama University. This class focused on teaching students about environmental issues and the importance of recycling.

Overview of the Class

The educational session consisted of two parts, designed to engage the fifth and sixth-grade students in active learning. A total of 15 students participated in this hands-on program, designed to help them understand the mechanisms of resource circulation and the necessity of recycling.

Part 1: Okuwa's Contribution

In the first segment, Okuwa presented its initiatives towards environmental sustainability. They explained various methods for recycling trays and PET bottles, emphasizing their efforts to minimize food waste and promote eco-friendly practices in their stores. This segment was crucial in showcasing how a business can operate in harmony with environmental goals.

Part 2: Insights from F-Pico

The second part of the class was led by F-Pico, where they discussed pressing environmental issues facing the planet today and elaborated on why recycling is essential. The students were taught how to distinguish between recyclable and non-recyclable plastics by interacting with real examples, fostering a practical understanding of materials involved in recycling processes.

Feedback from Participants

The program received positive feedback from both teachers and students. The homeroom teacher, Mr. Yade, noted, "Hearing directly from Okuwa about their practices provided a valuable opportunity for the children to understand the importance of sorting the trays they use daily." One participating student remarked, "I never knew that some containers could be recycled while others could not."

Ongoing Commitment to Environmental Education

Both F-Pico and Okuwa are committed to continuing their efforts in environmental education for future generations. They plan to enhance resource collection at retail locations and promote products made from recycled materials. Their ultimate goal is to contribute to the realization of a sustainable circular society.

Company Profiles

• - F-Pico: A leading manufacturer of food containers used in supermarkets and convenience stores across Japan. Established in July 1962, F-Pico is dedicated to promoting sustainability through recycling initiatives like 'Tray-to-Tray' and 'Bottle-to-Clear Container', significantly reducing CO2 emissions and developing eco-friendly packaging options.

For more information, visit the F-Pico website

• - Okuwa: Based in Wakayama City, Okuwa operates over 150 supermarkets across six prefectures, continuously striving to balance innovative practices with environmental consciousness. Founded in February 1959, Okuwa aims to express gratitude to their stakeholders and contribute positively to the local community and broader environmental issues.

Visit the Okuwa website